Pesto Christmas Tree Breadsticks
A festive, pull-apart appetizer that’s perfect for your Christmas party table. Flaky puff pastry, creamy pesto, and savory parmesan come together in this easy, show-stopping holiday treat.
🕒 Prep Time: 5 minutes
🕒 Cook Time: 18 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 23 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the tree: Take one sheet of puff pastry and cut it into a large triangle with a small rectangle at the bottom to resemble a Christmas tree. This will be the base.
- Layer the filling: Spread pesto evenly across the surface of the puff pastry. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese for that savory touch.
- Add the top layer: Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top. Trim the excess so both sheets are the same shape.
- Cut and twist: Using a sharp knife, cut horizontal slits on both sides of the tree, leaving about ½ inch uncut in the center to form the trunk. Gently twist each strip twice to create the tree branches.
- Egg wash & bake: Brush the entire pastry with egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Serve warm: Transfer to a serving platter and serve with marinara sauce or additional pesto for dipping.
Pro Tips
- Add a star: Use extra puff pastry to cut out a small star and place it on top of the tree before baking for a festive finish.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the tree a few hours before baking and refrigerate it until ready to cook.
- Sweet version: Swap pesto and parmesan for Nutella or cinnamon sugar for a dessert twist.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve your Savory Christmas Tree Breadsticks with Pesto as part of your holiday appetizer spread. They pair beautifully with:
- Marinara sauce or garlic aioli for dipping
- Cranberry brie bites for a sweet and savory balance
- Sparkling prosecco or a holiday punch to complement the buttery flavor
Perfect for Christmas Eve parties, potlucks, or festive brunches.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 serving | 256 | 8g | 10g | 21g | 0g | 0g |
Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredients used. For precise dietary information, consult a certified nutritionist.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?
Yes! Homemade pesto adds an even fresher flavor. Just ensure it’s not too oily so the pastry stays crisp.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use a vegetarian-friendly parmesan or nutritional yeast for the cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness.
Can I freeze the baked breadsticks?
Yes. Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to a month. Reheat directly from frozen until warmed through.
Savory Christmas Tree Breadsticks with Pesto
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savory Christmas Tree Breadsticks with Pesto are the perfect pull-apart appetizer—festive, flaky, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
2 sheets puff pastry
1/3 cup pesto
1/2 cup parmesan
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut 1 sheet of puff pastry into a large triangle with a base trunk.
3. Spread pesto and parmesan evenly across the surface.
4. Place second sheet on top and trim to match shape.
5. Cut horizontal slits on both sides, leaving center intact.
6. Twist each strip twice to form branches.
7. Brush entire tree with egg wash.
8. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden.
Notes
Refrigerate assembled tree up to 6 hours before baking.
Swap pesto for Nutella or cinnamon sugar for a sweet version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 256
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 383mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
