Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree

Have you ever seen a dessert that’s almost too pretty to eat?

Imagine walking into a holiday party and seeing a golden, flaky Christmas tree on the dessert table—complete with layers of warm Nutella oozing through crispy puff pastry. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds—it’s a showstopper! But here’s the best part: you can make it in less than 30 minutes, with just a handful of ingredients.

This Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is the perfect holiday dessert for anyone who loves easy, delicious, and festive recipes. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, this recipe will make you look like a pro.

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This recipe is all about combining simplicity with creativity. The Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree is a quick, no-fuss dessert that turns store-bought puff pastry and chocolate hazelnut spread into a holiday masterpiece. It’s ready in about 25 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings or a fun baking activity with kids.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Serves: 8–10

What makes it special?

• It looks stunning on any dessert table.
• It tastes like a mix between a chocolate croissant and a pastry twist.
• It’s easy to customize—use Nutella, Biscoff, or even jam!

Essential Ingredients

What You’ll Need:

• 2 sheets puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
• ½ cup Nutella (or any chocolate hazelnut spread)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Substitutions and Variations:

• Chocolate spread: Use Biscoff, peanut butter, or almond butter for a twist.
• Vegan version: Use vegan puff pastry and dairy-free chocolate spread.
• Gluten-free option: Try a gluten-free puff pastry brand.
• Festive touch: Add crushed candy canes, colored sugar, or edible glitter.

Tip: Make sure your puff pastry is slightly chilled—it’s easier to cut and shape that way!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Unroll one sheet of puff pastry onto the parchment paper. This will form the base of your Christmas tree.

Step 2: Spread the Nutella

Warm the Nutella slightly in the microwave (about 10–15 seconds) so it spreads easily.
Using an offset spatula or butter knife, spread an even layer of Nutella over the entire puff pastry sheet—go almost to the edges but leave a small border.

Step 3: Add the Second Sheet

Place the second puff pastry sheet directly on top of the Nutella layer, pressing gently to seal the edges.

Step 4: Shape the Christmas Tree

Use a sharp knife to cut out a large triangle shape (this will be the tree).
Cut out a small star from the leftover pastry for the tree topper and set it aside.
Once you have your triangle tree shape, gently remove the excess dough around it.

Step 5: Create the Branches

Starting from the base, cut horizontal lines on both sides of the triangle—leaving a strip down the center (the “trunk”) uncut.
Twist each strip gently 1–2 times to form branches. The twists will reveal layers of Nutella and puff pastry that bake beautifully golden and crisp.

Step 6: Add the Star and Brush with Egg Wash

Attach the pastry star to the top of your tree using a dab of water.
Brush the entire tree with beaten egg to give it that glossy golden-brown finish.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before transferring to a serving platter.

Assembly and Presentation

Once your Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree has cooled slightly, you can:

• Dust it with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
• Drizzle melted white chocolate across the branches for contrast.
• Add fresh berries or gold sprinkles for a festive touch.

For a party-ready look, place the pastry on a large wooden board, add a small bowl of whipped cream or fruit on the side, and surround it with candy canes or ornaments for decoration.

Presentation Tip: Serve it warm for the ultimate “pull-apart” experience—each guest can twist off a branch!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to crisp it up again. Avoid microwaving—it makes the pastry soggy.
• To Freeze: Before baking, assemble and freeze the unbaked tree on a tray until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake directly from frozen when needed (add 5 extra minutes).

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare and shape the tree up to a day ahead, keep it in the fridge covered with plastic wrap, then bake it fresh before serving.

Recipe Variations

1. Biscoff Tree

Use Biscoff cookie butter instead of Nutella. The caramelized cookie flavor is divine and perfect for winter.

2. Raspberry Chocolate Tree

Spread Nutella and add a thin layer of raspberry jam before sealing the pastry sheets. Sweet and tart!

3. Cinnamon Sugar Tree

Skip the Nutella and brush melted butter between the layers. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a cozy, churro-inspired version.

4. Savory Tree

Use pesto or cream cheese and shredded cheese instead for a savory twist—ideal for brunch or appetizers.

5. White Chocolate Peppermint Tree

Spread white chocolate and sprinkle with crushed candy canes before baking for a peppermint bark-inspired version.

Conclusion

The Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree isn’t just a dessert—it’s a holiday experience.
It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together around the table, pulling off branches, sharing smiles, and creating memories.

Whether you’re hosting a Christmas Eve dinner, a holiday brunch, or a cozy family movie night, this treat adds the perfect festive touch. It’s easy, beautiful, and absolutely delicious.

So grab that puff pastry, warm up some Nutella, and bake your way into the holiday spirit!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade puff pastry?

Yes! If you have the time, homemade puff pastry works beautifully. Just make sure it’s rolled thin enough to bake evenly.

2. What if I don’t have Nutella?

No problem—use any spread you like: peanut butter, almond butter, or Biscoff.

3. How do I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Avoid over-spreading the Nutella (too much moisture) and bake until golden brown.

4. Can I make this in advance?

Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love helping shape and twist the branches. It’s a fun family project.

6. Can I add toppings before baking?

Yes—try sprinkling crushed nuts, sugar crystals, or mini chocolate chips for extra crunch.

7. Is this Nutella Puff Pastry Christmas Tree suitable for parties?

It’s perfect! It’s visually impressive, easy to serve, and guests can grab a “branch” without needing plates.

Final Tip: The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just puff pastry and Nutella, you can turn your holiday dessert table into something that looks bakery-worthy.