Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

If you’re looking for a festive treat that will impress your family and friends, the Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is just the thing! This delightful dessert combines flaky puff pastry with creamy chocolate hazelnut goodness. It’s not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings during the holidays. Every bite is a warm hug of deliciousness that brings back fond memories of holiday baking.

What makes this recipe special is how simple it is to whip up, yet it looks like a showstopper on any dessert table. You can make it ahead of time or bake it fresh right before guests arrive. Plus, who wouldn’t want to be greeted by the heavenly aroma of baked pastry and Nutella wafting through their home?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a stunning dessert in no time.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids love helping shape the tree and twisting the branches; it’s a great way to bond!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the pastry ahead of time and bake it just before serving for a warm treat.
• Deliciously indulgent flavor: The rich flavor of Nutella paired with flaky pastry will please everyone’s palate.
• Impressive presentation: This dessert looks beautiful on any table, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree calls for some simple and wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Get ready to enjoy this delightful combination!

• 1 – 17.3 oz package frozen puff pastry (2 sheets), thawed but still cold
• 4 – 6 tablespoons Nutella Hazelnut Spread
• 1 egg (beaten)
• Powdered sugar, for sprinkling

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own.

• Change up the filling: Instead of Nutella, try using almond butter or a mix of your favorite chocolate spread for a twist.
• Add spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the Nutella before spreading for extra warmth and flavor.
• Include fruits: Add thin slices of banana or strawberries between the layers for a fruity surprise.
• Make mini trees: Use smaller pieces of puff pastry to create individual Christmas trees for each guest.

How to Make Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. This ensures that your Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree bakes evenly and becomes perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare Your Parchment Paper

Sprinkle a little flour on top of a sheet of parchment paper. This prevents the puff pastry from sticking while you roll it out, making the entire process smoother.

Step 3: Roll Out the First Sheet

Unfold one sheet of puff pastry onto your floured parchment paper. Using a rolling pin, gently roll this sheet into an 11 x 13 inch rectangle. Once done, lift the parchment onto a baking sheet; this will make transferring easier later.

Step 4: Spread That Nutella!

Spread the Nutella Hazelnut Spread over the puff pastry layer, leaving some space around the edges. This layer adds that rich chocolatey flavor we all love and keeps everything beautifully gooey inside.

Step 5: Roll Out The Second Sheet

Now unfold your second sheet of puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and roll it out into another 11 x 13 inch rectangle. It should be similar in size to your first layer so they fit together perfectly.

Step 6: Assemble Your Pastry Layers

Carefully place this second layer on top of the first one with Nutella spread. Press down gently around the edges to seal them together; this will help keep all that delicious filling inside as it bakes!

Step 7: Create Your Template

Using printer paper or parchment paper, cut out a Christmas tree shape to use as your template. This simple step helps you achieve that iconic tree shape effortlessly.

Step 8: Cut Out The Tree Shape

Place your template over the puff pastry and use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice around it. Don’t forget to reserve those extra pieces; they can be used later!

Step 9: Mark Your Centerline

Lay down a ruler down the center of your Christmas tree shape as a guide for cutting branches later. This will help maintain even spacing when you start slicing.

Step 10: Slice The Branches

Starting from one side, make horizontal cuts into each side of your triangle tree shape, stopping before reaching center. Then repeat on the other side—remember, leave that middle section intact!

Step 11: Twist Those Branches

Starting at the bottom, gently twist each branch away from you while pressing down at its base to secure it in place. This gives each branch that lovely twisted look!

Step 12: Add Decorative Touches

With any leftover puff pastry pieces, use a star cookie cutter to create an adorable star for atop your tree! Plus, cut out a small piece for its stump; these details add charm!

Step 13: Brush With Egg Wash

Brush all over with beaten egg—it helps achieve that gorgeous golden color when baked.

Step 14: Bake

Pop your creation in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes until puffy and golden brown.

Step 15: Finish With Powdered Sugar

Let cool slightly once it’s out of the oven before sprinkling powdered sugar generously on top—this mimics freshly fallen snow!

There you have it—your very own Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree ready to wow everyone at your next gathering! Enjoy sharing this sweet tradition with those you love!

Pro Tips for Making Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

Creating a stunning Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is easier than you think, and these tips will help you achieve the perfect festive treat!

• Keep the pastry cold: Working with cold puff pastry ensures it puffs up beautifully in the oven. If it warms up too much, it may become difficult to handle and won’t rise as well.
• Don’t overfill with Nutella: Spreading too much Nutella can cause the filling to ooze out during baking. A thin, even layer between the sheets is just enough to keep things deliciously gooey without making a mess.
• Use sharp tools for cutting: A sharp knife or pizza cutter will give you clean edges when cutting your Christmas tree shape. This helps maintain a beautiful presentation and allows for easier twisting of the branches.
• Rotate your baking sheet: Ovens can have hot spots that lead to uneven baking. Rotating your baking sheet halfway through the cooking time helps achieve an evenly golden-brown crust.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing the pastry to cool slightly before adding powdered sugar makes sure it doesn’t melt into the warm pastry. This way, you’ll get that lovely snowy effect on top!

How to Serve Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

Presenting your Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas that will elevate your festive display.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives a beautiful snowy appearance that enhances the holiday spirit.
• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries around the base can add a pop of color and a tart contrast to the sweet Nutella.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The combination of warm puff pastry and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, making each bite irresistible.
• Hot cocoa: Serve with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for a comforting and cozy pairing that enhances the festive mood.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides balance to the richness of the pastry, bringing brightness and freshness to your dessert table.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy component that complements the chocolate hazelnut flavor perfectly.

This Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is more than just a treat; it’s an experience meant to be savored with friends and family during this magical season. Enjoy every moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is not only a delightful treat to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy it fresh whenever you’re ready.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover puff pastry Christmas tree in an airtight container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• For best results, reheat before serving to restore that flaky texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pastry tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, you might find these questions helpful!

Can I make a Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree in advance. Simply store it in the fridge or freezer, as outlined above, and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of egg wash for my Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree?

If you’re looking for an egg-free alternative, you can brush the pastry with milk or a non-dairy milk option like almond or soy milk. This will give it a nice golden color as well!

How do I store leftovers from my Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them as detailed above.

Can I customize my Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree?

Definitely! Feel free to add toppings like chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate after baking for added flavor and decoration.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this charming Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree! It’s a wonderful way to bring some joy and sweetness into your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to warm hearts. Give it a try, and let your creativity shine—happy baking!