# Components:
→ Puff Pastry
01 - 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (approximately 8.8 oz each)
→ Filling
02 - 4.2 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tablespoons basil pesto
04 - 1 garlic clove, minced
05 - 1 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
07 - Salt and pepper to taste
→ Topping
08 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
09 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
10 - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
# Method:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, basil pesto, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
03 - Unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a 0.4-inch border.
04 - Place the second puff pastry sheet on top and gently press to seal the edges.
05 - With a sharp knife, cut a large Christmas tree shape (a triangle with a trunk) through both pastry layers. Remove excess pastry and reserve for decorations.
06 - Starting from the bottom of the tree, cut horizontal strips about 0.8 inches wide on both sides, leaving the center intact to form the trunk.
07 - Twist each strip away from the center 2 to 3 times to create branches.
08 - Use the reserved pastry scraps to cut out star or ornament shapes and place them on the tree.
09 - Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg and sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds and optional poppy seeds.
10 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
11 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
