# What You'll Need:
→ Puff Pastry
01 - 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (approximately 8.8 oz each)
→ Filling
02 - 4 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 black pepper to taste
→ Topping
08 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
09 - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
10 - 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (optional)
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Combine cream cheese, basil pesto, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
03 - Unroll one puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the filling evenly over it, leaving a 0.4-inch border around the edges.
04 - Place the second puff pastry sheet on top of the filling, gently pressing the edges to seal.
05 - Using a sharp knife, cut a large triangle with a trunk to form a Christmas tree shape through both pastry layers. Remove excess pastry and reserve for decorations.
06 - Cut horizontal strips approximately 0.8 inches wide on both sides of the tree, starting from the bottom, leaving the center intact as the trunk. Twist each strip 2 to 3 times away from the center to form branches.
07 - Use leftover pastry to cut out stars or other ornaments and arrange them atop the tree.
08 - Brush the entire surface with beaten egg. Sprinkle sesame seeds and poppy seeds evenly over the tree.
09 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
10 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.
