These little Christmas-tree stacks always bring such warmth to the table—crispy, golden layers on the outside, with that melty ham-and-cheese surprise in the base. They remind me of the treats I used to make for the kids when they’d gather around the kitchen asking, “Is it ready yet?” If these spark a festive memory for you too, oh I’d love to hear it.
Ingredients:
2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
6–8 slices deli ham, thin
6–8 slices cheese (Gruyère, Swiss, mozzarella, or gouda)
1 egg
1 tbsp water
Sesame seeds (optional)
Fresh parsley, finely chopped
Wooden skewers
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry slightly to even out the thickness. 3 minutes
Cut into graduated squares: large (3.5–4 inches), medium (3 inches), small (2 inches), and very small (1–1.5 inches). Aim for 4–5 squares per tree. 5 minutes
For the bottom 2–3 layers, assemble: square → ham → cheese → square. This gives that melty layered base. Upper layers stay plain. 4 minutes
Beat the egg with 1 tbsp water and brush each square lightly. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top if you like.
2 minutes
Place the squares separately on a lined tray and bake 15–18 minutes until puffed and deep golden. Remember—the trees are not baked assembled.
18 minutes
Allow pieces to cool slightly, then thread onto skewers: largest at the bottom, then smaller layers upward, finishing with the tiny top. 5 minutes
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the tops for that festive green touch.
1 minute
Prep Time: 14 minutes | Baking Time: 18 minutes | Assembly Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 38 minutes
Kcal: 190 kcal | Servings: 4–5 trees
