Celebrate the holiday season with these adorable Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Dulce de Leche! Shaped in the shape of a christmas tree, this easy recipe is perfect for the festive season. It requires only a handful of ingredients: puff pastry, a sweet filling of rich dulce de leche, and an egg wash for that golden finish.
These adorable trees make a delicious dessert or a fun, sweet appetizer everyone will love. Add some holiday cheer to your table with this Dulce de Leche Dessert!
Every year, I love experimenting with puff pastry dessert recipes, and this new recipe for puff pastry christmas trees with dulce de leche has quickly become one of my favorite holiday treats! The combination of flaky puff pastry and creamy dulce de leche creates a festive and satisfying sweet treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
If you’ve tried my Pastelitos de Guayaba y Queso (Guava and Cheese Pastries), you already know how versatile a good puff pastry recipe can be for recreating Latin recipes at home. These Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Desserts are the perfect addition to your collection of favorite puff pastry recipes, offering a fun, holiday-themed twist to simple puff pastry desserts.
Jump to:
- ❤️Why You Will Love This Christmas Puff Pastry Recipe
- Other Recipes with Dulce de Leche
- Equipment
- Ingredients and Substitutions
- Additional Tips about Puff Pastry
- How to Make Christmas Trees with Dulce de Leche
- Recipe Variations
- Storage suggestions
- ⭐Leave a review!
- Related Recipes
- Pairing Suggestions
- 📖 GET THE RECIPE! 🍽️
❤️Why You Will Love This Christmas Puff Pastry Recipe
- SUPER SIMPLE AND FESTIVE – with just three simple ingredients, this christmas tree pastry recipe is easy to make yet looks stunning, making it a fun addition to your holiday baking!
- VERSATILE AND DELICIOUS – makes the perfect appetizer or a sweet dessert; the flaky layers and decadent dulce de leche filling make these pastries ideal for christmas parties or any gathering. Swap the dulce de leche for savory fillings to create a savory appetizer.
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING – these adorable treats are a show-stopping centerpiece for your christmas table, bringing joy and a festive vibe to any celebration as a festive christmas appetizer.
Other Recipes with Dulce de Leche
If you love desserts with dulce de leche, here are more sweet and indulgent recipes to try. These recipes are perfect for anyone who can’t resist the luscious, caramel-like flavor of Dulce de Leche!
- Easy Dulce de Leche Apple Crisp Without Oats – A warm and comforting dessert featuring spiced apples, dulce de leche and a crunchy topping.
- Dulce de Leche and Apple Empanadas – Flaky, golden pastries filled with a sweet apple and dulce de leche mixture. Perfect for any occasion!
- Spiced Apple Streusel Coffee Cake with Dulce de Leche – A moist coffee cake topped with a crunchy streusel and swirls of dulce de leche for a decadent treat.
- Decadent Dulce de Leche Martini Cocktail with Rum – A dessert-inspired cocktail that combines the creamy sweetness of dulce de leche with the warmth of rum.
Equipment
To make these adorable Puff Pastry Christmass Trees, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife – perfect for cutting clean and precise strips.
- Rolling Pin – to gently roll out the puff pastry for an even thickness.
- Pastry Brush – for applying the egg wash.
- Parchment Paper – optional. Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Small Bowl – for making the egg wash.
- Cookie sheet or baking sheet.
Ingredients and Substitutions
With just three ingredients, all conveniently found at your grocery store, you can easily create festive and delicious christmas puff pastry recipes in less than 30 minutes!
See the Printable recipe card at the bottom of this post for quantities
- Store-Bought Puff Pastry – Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe quick and easy. See additional tips about puff pastry below.
- Dulce de Leche, such as La Lechera—The rich and creamy filling adds luscious sweetness to these pastries.
- Egg for the egg wash gives the pastries a lovely golden shine.
Additional Tips about Puff Pastry
Look for puff pastry dough in the freezer section of the grocery store; most grocery stores carry brands like Pepperidge Farm, though I like using Duffour Pastry dough by Dufour Pastry Kitchens made only with butter. During the holiday season, Trader Joes also carries all butter puff pastry sheets.
- Dufour Brand: A 14-ounce package of Dufour brand contains one 14-ounce sheet measuring 9x15 inches and 1/8-inch thick. If you use Dufour, you will need two packages for this recipe.
- Pepperidge Farm: A 17.3-ounce package of Pepperidge Farm contains two rectangular sheets, each weighing a little over 8.5 ounces. They measure 10x15 inches each and are 1/8 inch thick. You only need one package of Pepperidge Farm's.
- Trader Joes: A 18.3-ounce package of Trader Joes contains two rectangular sheets, each weighing a little over 9 ounces. They measure 10x12 inches each and are 1/16 inch thick. You only need one package of Trader Joes'.
All brands are acceptable for this recipe and bake into the perfect layers of puff pastry light, flaky, and irresistible. The main difference is Dufour and Trader Joes use only butter, and Pepperidge Farm uses oils.
How to Make Christmas Trees with Dulce de Leche
These step-by-step instructions will guide you to create a simple, beautiful christmas tree puff pastry to make and deliver impressive results! These puff pastry sheets transform into the perfect dessert or sweet appetizer, bringing holiday cheer to any table!
- Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry and Filling
- Follow the package instructions by thawing your frozen puff pastry at room temperature. This will ensure the dough is soft yet cool enough to handle.
- On a lightly floured worksurface, unfold the puff pastry sheets.
- Step 2: Assemble the Christmas Trees. - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Using a rolling pin, gently roll over the sheet of puff pastry to create an even thickness.
- Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche evenly over the entire sheet.
- Step 3: Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the dulce de leche-coated sheet, aligning the edges.
Gently press the two layers together.
- Step 4: Cut the pastry into even strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter (about 1-inch strips).
- To form the christmas tree shape, fold one strip in a zigzag pattern, starting wider at the base and narrowing toward the top of the tree.
- Reserve a small portion of the strip for the top of the christmas tree, shaping it into a mini triangle or using a small star cookie cutter for a festive touch.
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- Step 5: Carefully insert a skewer through the middle of the tree, ensuring it holds the zigzagged layers together.
- Place each tree on a piece of parchment paper set on a prepared baking sheet.
- Step 6: Whisk the egg with one teaspoon of water in a small bowl.
- Brush the entire pastry with egg wash using a pastry brush, to give the pastries a beautiful golden shine.
- Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until the trees are puffed and golden brown.
- Step 6: Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Dust them with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch or enjoy them as they are —deliciously sweet and flaky.
These delightful Christmas Tree Pastries make a perfect festive dessert or Sweet Holiday Appetizer to WOW your guests!
Recipe Variations
This Puff Pastry Christmas Tree recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste. Here are some creative variations:
Sweet Variations
- Nutella puff pastry christmas tree – swap the dulce de leche with chocolate hazelnut spread or nutella for another rich and indulgent treat. Add a sprinkle of crunchy pecans for extra texture.
- Cinnamon sugar puff pastry tree – brush with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar for a warm and cozy flavor.
- Chocolate puff pastry – spread melted chocolate over the pastry.
- Fresh fruit and jam – try using raspberry jam or apple pie filling for a fruity twist.
- Peanut butter delight – use peanut butter to fill and sprinkle with chocolate chips for a sweet-and-salty treat.
Savory Variations
- Pesto puff pastry christmas tree – spread a layer of pesto on the pastry and add grated parmesan or mozzarella. After baking, decorate with halved cherry tomatoes for a festive, tree-like look.
- Other savory fillings—for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, fill your pastry with options like cream cheese and herbs, spinach and feta, or even ham and cheese.
- Savory puff pastry twists –fill with your favorite savory filling options, and instead of a tree, twist the strips (olive tapenade makes a great filling option for this variation).
Storage suggestions
To keep leftovers fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Room temperature: If you plan to enjoy them within a day, store the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Refrigerator: For extended storage, wrap the pastries tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To revive their crispness, warm the pastries in a 350°f (175°c) oven for a few minutes before serving.
These Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizers are perfect for your holiday table. Whether you serve them as an easy appetizer or sweet treat, their festive charm and flaky, buttery layers are sure to impress. Each puff pastry tree is a delicious treat and a beautiful centerpiece for your gathering.
Pair your Christmas Tree Puff Pastry with a cup of coffee for a cozy moment or include them in your Christmas puff pastry recipes collection. These versatile puff pastries are easy to make, fun to share, and guaranteed to add holiday magic to your celebrations!
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Related Recipes
Looking for other Latin Inspired desserts like this?
Pairing Suggestions
These are my favorite holiday dishes to serve with this recipe:
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Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Dulce de Leche
Equipment
- Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife, Rolling Pin, Pastry Brush, Small Bowl, baking sheet and Parchment Paper – optional.
Ingredients
- 2 sheets Store-Bought Puff Pastry Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe quick and easy. See notes on tips for puff pastry.
- 1 Cup Dulce de Leche
- 1 Large Egg plus 1 teaspoon of Water.
Instructions
Prepare the Puff Pastry and Filling
- Follow the package instructions by thawing your frozen puff pastry at room temperature. This will ensure the dough is soft yet cool enough to handle.
- On a lightly floured worksurface, unfold the puff pastry sheets.
- Using a rolling pin, gently roll over the sheet of puff pastry to create an even thickness.
Assemble the Christmas Trees
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Spread a generous layer of dulce de leche evenly over the entire sheet.
- Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top of the dulce de leche-coated sheet, aligning the edges. Gently press the two layers together.
- Cut the pastry into even strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter (about 1-inch strips).
- To form the christmas tree shape, fold one strip in a zigzag pattern, starting wider at the base and narrowing toward the top of the tree.
- Reserve a small portion of the strip for the top of the christmas tree, shaping it into a mini triangle or using a small star cookie cutter for a festive touch.
Skewer and Bake
- Carefully insert a skewer through the middle of the tree, ensuring it holds the zigzagged layers together.
- Place each tree on a piece of parchment paper set on a prepared baking sheet.
- Whisk the whole egg with one teaspoon of water in a small bowl. Brush the entire pastry with egg wash using a pastry brush, to give the pastries a beautiful golden shine.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until the trees are puffed and golden brown.
- Allow the pastries to cool slightly before serving. Dust them with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch or enjoy them as they are —deliciously sweet and flaky.
Would you like to save this recipe?
We'll email this recipe post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Notes
- Dufour Pastry Kitchens: A 14-ounce package of Dufour brand contains one 14-ounce sheet measuring 9x15 inches and 1/8-inch thick. If you use Dufour, you will need two packages for this recipe.
- Pepperidge Farm: A 17.3-ounce package of Pepperidge Farm contains two rectangular sheets, each weighing a little over 8.5 ounces. They measure 10x15 inches each and are 1/8 inch thick. You only need one package of Pepperidge Farm's.
- Trader Joes: A 18.3-ounce package of Trader Joes contains two rectangular sheets, each weighing a little over 9 ounces. They measure 10x12 inches each and are 1/16 inch thick. You only need one package of Trader Joes' for this recipe.
- Room temperature: If you plan to enjoy them within a day, store the pastries in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Refrigerator: For extended storage, wrap the pastries tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To revive their crispness, warm the pastries in a 350°f (175°c) oven for a few minutes before serving.
Easy Dulce de Leche Apple Crisp Recipe Without Oats
Easy Dulce de Leche and Apple Empanadas
Spiced Apple Streusel Coffee Cake with Dulce de Leche
Decadent Dulce de Leche Martini Cocktail with Rum
Tamara says
Puff pastry Christmas tree idea is wonderful.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Festive and easy was the goal. Thanks!
Mary Anne says
These puff pastry trees were cute, easy to make AND delicious! I made them last year and will make them again over the holidays.
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
When a recipe becomes a holiday tradition, that’s a big win in my book! ✨
Stacy says
These Puff Pastry Christmas Trees with Dulce de Leche are almost too cute to eat—almost! Flaky and filled with that dulce de leche, they sure are the perfect festive treat. They were so easy to make. Yum!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Almost too cute to eat — but definitely too delicious not to! I’m so glad you loved how easy and flaky they turned out.
Dinora says
Just the recipe I needed for xmas. I mean, Dulce de Leche is irresistable anyway, but with puff pastry it's even better. And these trees look so cute while being super easy to make. Exactly the thing to save me during the hectic holiday period!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Thank you for sharing, Dinora! I’m thrilled these little trees were a festive (and stress-saving) win for your Christmas 💛
Jean says
Made these puff pastry Christmas trees, and they were a hit! So easy and perfect with dulce de leche. Definitely making them again!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Glad they were a hit and earned a spot on your “make again” list 💛
Susie says
I made these for the kids on Christmas Eve and they loved it!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Aww, that’s the best! Thank you
Ruth says
Such a cute idea for Christmas time! Such a delicious holiday treat!
Juyali (ju-ja-lee) says
Cute and delicious is my favorite kind of holiday treat 😊 Thanks for sharing.