Christmas Tree Cheese Bites
Christmas Tree Cheese Bites
These Christmas Tree Cheese Bites are the kind of festive nibble that disappears fast. Flaky puff pastry, a creamy herbed cheese filling, and a little sparkle on top make them a joyful party plate. They look fancy but come together with simple steps you can prep ahead.
Ingredients
Cheese Bites
- 2 puff pastry sheets, keep chilled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 0.5 tsp kosher salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tsp everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds or grated Parmesan
For Serving (Optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 0.5 cup honey mustard
- 24 pretzel sticks, optional, for trunks
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment. Keep puff pastry chilled until using for the best puff.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheese, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Unfold one pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Cut long strips about 2 inches wide, then cut each strip into small triangles to mimic trees. Repeat with the second sheet to make matching tops and bottoms.
- Place half the triangles on prepared sheets. Add a small dollop of filling in the center, leaving a border. Top with remaining triangles and press edges to seal. Crimp gently with a fork.
- Brush tops with beaten egg (or milk). Sprinkle with everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or Parmesan. Cut a tiny vent on top to let steam escape.
- Bake 12 to 16 minutes, until puffed and deep golden. Cool 5 minutes. If using pretzel sticks for trunks, gently insert one into the base of each tree just before serving.
- Arrange on a platter with bowls of warm marinara, cranberry sauce, or honey mustard. Enjoy while warm and flaky.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Cheese Bites
- Festive and fun to eat, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Simple ingredients with big flavor and golden, flaky layers.
- Easy to make ahead and bake off just before guests arrive.
- Adorable tree shape that kids and adults both love.
Tips for Success
- Keep pastry cold and the oven fully preheated for maximum puff.
- Do not overfill so edges seal well.
- If dough softens, chill assembled trays 10 minutes before baking.
- Insert pretzel trunks after baking so they stay crisp.
Variations of Christmas Tree Cheese Bites
- Spinach and Herb
- Pesto Swirl
- Jalapeño Popper
- Turkey Bacon and Chive
- Sweet Heat
Serving Suggestions
Set out with a bright cranberry relish, warm marinara, or herb yogurt dip. Pair with a board of fresh veggies, olives, and crisp crackers. Offer sparkling water with citrus or chilled sparkling grape juice for a festive sip.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead? Yes. Assemble and freeze unbaked on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
How do I keep the edges from opening? Use a light touch of water around the border before sealing, crimp with a fork, and avoid overfilling.
Can I air fry these? Yes. Air fry at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes until puffed and golden, working in batches.
What if I do not have everything bagel seasoning? Use sesame seeds, poppy seeds, grated Parmesan, or a pinch of flaky salt.
