Intro and Brief Recap
Have you ever wished for a festive dish that dazzles on the table and delights the palate? Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible is just that dish. The moment these delightful treats emerge from the oven, the aroma of melted cheddar mingling with savory ham fills the air, creating an irresistible allure. Each bite reveals a flaky texture encasing a warm, gooey center, making it a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.
This enchanting recipe combines the iconic flavors of cheddar cheese and savory ham, wrapped in a fun Christmas tree shape. Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home, these stuffed trees promise to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Picture them gracing your festive spread while everyone gathers around to enjoy good food and even better company. With every bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that elevates the joy of the season.
Key Ingredients For Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Frozen Puff Pastry Sheets: These provide a light and flaky base; make sure to thaw them according to package instructions before use.
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Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a robust flavor that complements the ham beautifully; shredded cheese melts best for this recipe.
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Diced Ham: Opt for high-quality deli ham for rich taste; you can also use leftover holiday ham for added convenience.
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Egg Wash: Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water to give your stuffed trees a golden-brown finish when baked.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds color and freshness; it’s also optional but makes for an attractive garnish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Instructions For Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
First Step: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Second Step: Prepare the Pastry
Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into triangles about four inches wide at the base.
Third Step: Assemble Your Filling
In a bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese and diced ham. Mix well until fully combined.
Fourth Step: Fill and Shape
Place a spoonful of the cheese and ham mixture at the wide end of each triangle. Fold the sides over toward the center, then roll up tightly from the base to form tree shapes.
Fifth Step: Apply Egg Wash
Brush each stuffed tree with egg wash generously using a pastry brush. This will create that beautiful golden sheen as they bake.
Sixth Step: Bake Until Golden
Place your stuffed trees on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh parsley for an inviting presentation!
Expert Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
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Keep Pastry Cold: Ensure your puff pastry remains cold while you work; this helps achieve maximum flakiness during baking.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix up ingredients by adding other cheeses or vegetables based on personal preference or leftovers.
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Serve Warm: For optimal taste and texture, serve these stuffed trees warm out of the oven; they are best enjoyed fresh!
Presentation Ideas
This Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
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Colorful Veggie Platter: Serve your stuffed Christmas trees alongside a vibrant veggie platter. Use bell peppers, carrots, and cucumbers for a fresh crunch that complements the savory flavors of the cheese and ham.
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Homemade Dips: Offer a selection of homemade dips, such as creamy ranch or zesty salsa. These will elevate the taste experience and add a delightful mix of textures to your festive spread.
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Crispy Breadsticks: Pair the stuffed trees with crispy breadsticks. Their crunchiness provides a wonderful contrast to the softness of the cheese and ham filling, making each bite an adventure.
Storage Tips
To keep your Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to three days when properly stored. If you have leftovers, consider reheating them in the oven for a few minutes to restore that melty texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make them soggy.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these delightful treats, presentation is key. Arrange your Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees on a festive platter decorated with seasonal garnishes like parsley or pomegranate seeds. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also adds a splash of color to your holiday table.
Variations
Feel free to customize your Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible by adding different ingredients. You could incorporate spinach for a touch of greenery or swap out the ham for turkey or chicken if you prefer. Each variation offers a unique twist while maintaining that festive spirit.
FAQs
Can I make Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees ahead of time! To do this, assemble them completely but refrain from baking until you’re ready to serve. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, pop them into the oven until they’re golden brown and bubbly.
What type of cheese works best for stuffed Christmas trees?
Although cheddar cheese is traditional for Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible, feel free to experiment with other cheeses! Creamy gouda or sharp Swiss can add unique flavors that complement the ham beautifully. Mixing cheeses can create depth in flavor and enhance the overall dish.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version of Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible, substitute diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for ham. You can also use plant-based cheeses to maintain that delicious creamy texture while ensuring it’s meat-free.
How can I serve these stuffed trees at parties?
To serve Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees at parties, cut them into smaller pieces for easy snacking. Arrange them on toothpicks or skewers for individual servings. This makes it convenient for guests to enjoy without needing utensils while mingling during festive gatherings.
Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees – Festive Delight Irresistible
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Delight your holiday gatherings with these Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees. Bursting with savory ham and melty cheddar, encased in flaky puff pastry, these festive treats are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for parties or cozy family nights, they bring joy to any table.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced deli ham
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into 4-inch wide triangles.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded cheddar and diced ham until well combined.
- Place a spoonful of filling at the base of each triangle, fold the sides in, and roll up tightly to shape into trees.
- Beat the egg with water and brush over each stuffed pastry.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed tree (50g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
