Delicious Cheddar Ham Stuffed XMas Trees Recipe Youll Love

 

There’s something undeniably magical about the holiday season, isn’t there? The air is filled with the scent of pine and spices, and every corner of your home is adorned with twinkling lights and joyful decorations. One of my most cherished memories is gathering around the table with my family, sharing meals that not only filled our bellies but also warmed our hearts. Today, I’m excited to share a fun and festive recipe that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights: Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees!

These delightful little treats bring a playful twist to traditional flavors, combining sharp cheddar cheese and smoky ham within a flaky pastry that’s shaped like a Christmas tree. It’s not just a dish; it’s a centerpiece that brings smiles and sparks joy. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious cheesy trees that are as fun to prepare as they are to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🎄 Easy to make: Perfect for cooks of all levels—just follow along!
• 🎉 Impressive presentation: Your guests will ooh and aah at these festive bites.
• 🍽️ Comforting flavors: Who doesn’t love cheesy, meaty goodness wrapped in flaky pastry?
• 💵 Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t break the bank!
• 🕒 Quick prep: Can be assembled in under 30 minutes—ideal for last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather these tasty ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
• 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of diced smoked ham
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional, but adds a lovely tang)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Flour (for dusting)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Note: Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts beautifully, enhancing the flavor and texture. If you can, skip the pre-shredded stuff!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect time to let the aromas fill your kitchen.
2. Prepare the pastry: Dust your working surface with a little bit of flour. Unroll your puff pastry and roll it out gently with a rolling pin to smooth it out. Aim for a rectangle that’s about ¼ inch thick.
3. Cut the trees: Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut your pastry into Christmas tree shapes. You can create several small trees or fewer larger ones, depending on your preference! Just remember to leave some space in between as they will puff up while baking.
4. Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, diced ham, and Dijon mustard. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined—this filling will be bursting with flavor!
5. Stuff the trees: Place about a tablespoon of the cheesy ham mixture at the base of each pastry tree shape. Gently fold the branches over the filling to create a sealed tree shape. Brush the edges with the beaten egg to help them stick together.
6. Brush with egg wash: Once your trees are stuffed and shaped, it’s time to give them a lovely golden glow. Brush the top of each tree with the remaining beaten egg.
7. Bake your trees: Place your delicious creations on a lined baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed up. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
8. Garnish and serve: Once they’re out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that extra festive touch. These delightful bites are best enjoyed warm!

Pro Tip: To ensure a beautifully golden color on your trees, consider baking them on the middle rack. Keep an eye on them—it’s easy for the edges to brown faster than the center!

Pro Tips & Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so let your creativity shine! Here are some fun twists you can try:

• Herbs and Spices: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or even some freshly chopped thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with Gruyère, Swiss cheese, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ham for sautéed mushrooms or spinach—just make sure to drain any excess moisture!
• Sweet Version: Try a dessert twist using nut butter, chocolate, and banana in puff pastry for a sweet treat!

Serving Suggestions

Imagine serving these delightful Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees warm, alongside a cozy hot cup of cocoa or mulled apple cider. They’re perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or just an indulgent night in cozied up by the fireplace. Consider pairing them with a fresh green salad or a light soup to balance the richness of the pastry. The festive presentation will have your guests talking long after the last bite is gone!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Don’t worry! These stuffed trees can be stored easily.

• Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the unbaked trees by arranging them on a baking sheet, covering with plastic wrap, and storing in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time!

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling the day before and store it in the fridge, or even assemble the trees and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes in the oven if baking them cold!

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! While ham is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out for cooked bacon, turkey, or even shredded chicken. Get creative with your favorite deli meats!

What if I don’t have puff pastry?

If you’re in a pinch and don’t have puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough as a substitute. It won’t puff up quite the same way, but it will still yield a deliciously flaky result!

Are these suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled trees before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. This way, you can have fresh, warm trees on a whim!

Conclusion

There you have it—the delightful Cheddar and Ham Stuffed Christmas Trees, a whimsical addition to your holiday table that’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these with your loved ones as much as I do! If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about your experience—feel free to drop a comment below or share your creations on social media. Happy cooking and happy holidays!