What type of puff pastry works best?

Use ready-rolled puff pastry sheets thawed according to package instructions to ensure easy handling and flaky results.

Can I prepare these bites in advance?

Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate briefly. Bake just before serving to maintain puffiness and crispness.

Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, while parmesan adds a sharp, savory touch. Both blend well for richness and texture.

Brushing exposed pastry edges lightly with olive oil before baking encourages an even golden-brown finish.

Absolutely. Consider adding finely chopped ham, pepperoni, or swapping basil for parsley to suit taste preferences.

Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 16–18 minutes until pastry puffs and turns golden brown and cheese melts.

Festive, flaky, and cheesy, these puff pastry pizza bites shaped like Christmas trees make the perfect holiday appetizer or party snack.

I have always enjoyed serving these pizza bites at Christmas parties they are quick to prepare and loved by all my guests

Puff Pastry: 1 sheet (about 250 g) ready-rolled puff pastry, thawed if frozen
Sauce: 3 tablespoons pizza sauce or marinara sauce
Cheese: 100 g (about 1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 30 g (about 1/4 cup) grated parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Toppings: 8 cherry tomatoes, halved, 8 black olives, pitted and sliced, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional), 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings: 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Preheat Oven:: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Pastry:: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut into 16 Christmas tree shapes using a cookie cutter (or cut triangles for a tree effect).
Arrange Pastry:: Place the pastry trees on the prepared baking sheet.
Add Sauce:: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over each tree, leaving a small border around the edges.
Add Cheese:: Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the sauce.
Decorate:: Decorate each tree with cherry tomato halves and olive slices to resemble ornaments.
Season:: Sprinkle with dried oregano and a crack of black pepper.
Brush Pastry:: Brush the exposed pastry edges lightly with olive oil for a golden finish.
Bake:: Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Finish:: Remove from oven, cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil if desired Serve warm.

This recipe has become a favorite during family gatherings especially when kids help decorate the trees with olives and tomatoes

Serve these bites warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping and a side of fresh salad for a complete appetizer.

Add finely chopped cooked ham or pepperoni for a meaty version or swap basil for parsley to change the flavor profile.

Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

These puff pastry Christmas tree pizza bites add festive fun to any occasion and are a delicious way to celebrate the holidays.

→ What type of puff pastry works best?: Use ready-rolled puff pastry sheets thawed according to package instructions to ensure easy handling and flaky results.
→ Can I prepare these bites in advance?: Yes, assemble ahead and refrigerate briefly. Bake just before serving to maintain puffiness and crispness.
→ What cheese combinations are ideal?: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, while parmesan adds a sharp, savory touch. Both blend well for richness and texture.
→ How do I get a golden crust?: Brushing exposed pastry edges lightly with olive oil before baking encourages an even golden-brown finish.
→ Can these be customized with other toppings?: Absolutely. Consider adding finely chopped ham, pepperoni, or swapping basil for parsley to suit taste preferences.
→ What oven temperature and time are recommended?: Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 16–18 minutes until pastry puffs and turns golden brown and cheese melts.