Description
Festive Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree
Ingredients
2 sheets of puff pastry (thawed)
1/2 cup Nutella (or your favorite chocolate hazelnut spread)
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Powdered sugar (for garnish)
Directions
Preheat: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the tree: Lay one sheet of puff pastry on the parchment. Spread Nutella evenly, leaving a small border around the edges. Place the second puff pastry sheet on top.
Cut the tree: Using a knife, cut the pastry into a large triangle (tree shape). Save the extra pieces for other shapes!
Create branches: On both sides of the triangle, make horizontal cuts (leaving the center “trunk” intact). Twist each strip to form the branches.
Egg wash: Brush the entire tree with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake: Bake in the oven for 18-22 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Finish: Once cooled slightly, dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Calories: 220 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect pastry tree. First, ensure your puff pastry is fully thawed but still cold. On a lightly floured surface, roll one sheet to smooth any seams. Transfer it to your parchment-lined baking sheet. Using an offset spatula, spread the Nutella in a thin, even layer, staying about 1/2 inch from all edges. Carefully place the second pastry sheet on top and press gently to seal the edges. To form the tree, cut a large isosceles triangle from the layered pastry. Use a pizza cutter for clean lines. The remaining pastry scraps can be cut into stars or circles for decorations.
Now, create the branches. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, make parallel horizontal cuts along both sides of the triangle, starting about 1 inch from the outer edge and stopping about 1/2 inch from the center “trunk.” You should have 8-10 strips per side. Gently twist each strip 2-3 times, pressing the end lightly onto the baking sheet to secure it. This creates the classic twisted branch effect.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stunning dessert warm for the best experience. Place it on a large platter as a centerpiece. For an extra festive touch, accompany it with a bowl of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries, as the fruit’s acidity beautifully cuts the richness. A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a crowd-pleaser. For a decadent finish, drizzle with melted chocolate or a caramel sauce just before serving.
How-to Summary
In short: Layer thawed puff pastry with Nutella, cut into a triangle, slice horizontal strips for branches, twist them, brush with egg wash, and bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes until golden. Dust with powdered sugar to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the tree up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of Nutella? Any spread works well—try biscoff cookie butter, a sweetened mascarpone cheese, or even a thin layer of fruit preserves mixed with finely chopped nuts.
Why is my pastry not puffing? The pastry may have been over-handled or become too warm. Ensure ingredients are cold, and avoid twisting the branches too tightly, which can inhibit rising.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven to restore crispness.
Can I freeze the baked tree? It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can make the pastry soggy upon thawing. We recommend freezing the unbaked, assembled tree for up to a month and baking from frozen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using warm or melted Nutella, which can make the pastry soggy and difficult to handle.
- Cutting the branches all the way through the center trunk, which causes the tree to fall apart.
- Skipping the egg wash, which gives the tree its beautiful, festive golden color and shine.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, which prevents proper air circulation and even baking.
- Adding powdered sugar while the pastry is too hot, as it will simply melt and disappear.
Conclusion
This Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is more than just a dessert; it’s a simple, show-stopping activity that brings holiday magic to your kitchen. With minimal ingredients and maximum visual impact, it’s the perfect recipe to bake with family or to impress your guests. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a delicious, golden, and flaky centerpiece for your festive table. Happy baking and happy holidays!