# What you'll need:
→ Puff Pastry
01 - 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (each approximately 8.8 oz)
→ 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 - Set the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, basil pesto, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
03 - Unroll one puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet, spreading the filling evenly over the surface, leaving a 0.4 inch border around the edges.
04 - Place the second puff pastry sheet over the filling layer and gently press to seal the edges.
05 - Using a sharp knife, cut a large Christmas tree silhouette (a triangle with a trunk) through both pastry layers. Remove excess dough and reserve for decorations.
06 - From the bottom of the tree, cut horizontal strips approximately 0.8 inches wide on both sides, leaving the center intact as the trunk.
07 - Twist each strip away from the center 2 to 3 times to form the tree branches.
08 - Cut decorative shapes such as stars or ornaments from the reserved pastry and arrange them on the tree surface.
09 - Brush the entire tree with beaten egg, then sprinkle evenly with sesame seeds and optional poppy seeds.
10 - Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
11 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
