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Puff Pastry Christmas Tree with Smoked Trout

  • Prep time: 30 minutes

  • Cook time: 20 minutes

  • Servings : 10

A festive puff pastry tree filled with smoked trout and garlic‑herb cream cheese—easy, elegant, and ready in under an hour.


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Alliés culinaires Manger festif

  • Ingredient List

  • Preparation

    1. Thaw the puff pastry and smoked trout according to package instructions.
    2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
    3. Unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    4. Generously spread the herb and garlic cream cheese over the pastry, then layer with smoked trout slices.
    5. Unroll the second sheet of puff pastry, remove its parchment paper, and place it over the first sheet to cover the filling.
    6. Using a sharp knife, cut the layered pastry into the shape of a Christmas tree. With the leftover pastry, use cookie cutters to create stars or other festive shapes, or roll them into small stuffed croissants.
    7. Cut horizontal strips about 1 inch (2 cm) wide on both sides of the tree to form branches, leaving a 2-inch (5 cm) section in the centre intact for the trunk.
    8. Twist each branch gently to create a spiral effect.
    9. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk and brush it over the entire surface of the tree using a pastry brush.
    10. Bake in the centre of the oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.
    11. Serve warm and enjoy!

FAQ – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE COOKING

How to make puff pastry tree?

Roll out two sheets of puff pastry, stack with filling in between, then cut into a Christmas tree shape. Twist the “branches” and bake until golden. It's festive and easy!

What is the secret to puff pastry?

A hot oven (400°F or higher) and minimal handling are key. Keep your pastry cold before baking, and don’t overfill it. Brushing with egg wash gives it a beautiful golden finish.

What to put in puff pastry for appetizer?

Smoked fish, cream cheese, herbs, pesto, caramelized onions or grated cheese work great. Try smoked trout with lemon zest and dill for a festive, savoury bite.

How to cut a puff pastry Christmas tree?

Use a knife or pizza cutter to shape the pastry into a tree. Cut horizontal lines for branches and twist each one. Don’t forget the trunk—it helps hold the shape!

What kind of puff pastry is best?

Use all-butter puff pastry for the best flavour and texture. Frozen puff pastry sheets from quality brands work great—just make sure to thaw them properly before using.

Cool&Simple Culinary Team

Cool&Simple Culinary Team

Behind every Cool&Simple recipe is our love for great ingredients and easy-to-make ideas.

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