In the realm of holiday gatherings, where laughter dances like twinkling lights, the Cream & Jam Puff Pastry Trees stand as edible sculptures — heralding warmth and joy. Each golden branch, kissed by the sweetness of fruit and the richness of cream, invites all to partake in a symphony of flavors and textures. These delightful trees are not merely desserts; they are expressions of love crafted into a festive scene.
Why make this recipe
Embracing the art of baking, this recipe elevates simple ingredients into a celebration. The crispness of puff pastry encases a luscious filling, creating a harmonious balance that captivates the senses. With every bite, the creamy sweetness intertwined with the tartness of the jam evokes the charm of joyous holiday memories.
How to make Cream & Jam Puff Pastry Trees
Ingredients:
- 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed
- 1/2 cup raspberry or strawberry jam (or any holiday jam)
- 1 cup sweetened cream cheese or mascarpone
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp water
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Optional: holiday sprinkles, white chocolate drizzle
Directions:
Begin this poetic journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), while your heart swells with anticipation. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, preparing a soft canvas for the masterpiece that will soon unfold. Lay one sheet of puff pastry gently on the prepared tray, its delicate layers whispering promises of flakiness.
Spread a thin, velvety layer of cream cheese or mascarpone over the pastry — allowing the rich, sweet cream to envelop the surface like a soft blanket of comfort. Onto this canvas, dollop and lightly swirl the jam, letting its vibrant color and alluring fragrance inspire creativity.
With graceful care, place the second sheet of puff pastry atop, concealing the luscious filling beneath a protective layer. Using a sharp knife, cut out a large Christmas tree shape, ensuring the center remains intact, preserving the structure of this edible art. Along each side, make horizontal cuts to form branches, each incision delicately unfurling the promise of taste and texture. Gently twist each branch, revealing a glimpse of the creamy jam hidden within.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water, creating an egg wash that will impart a glossy finish to your creation. Brush the pastry tree with this golden elixir, sending it into the oven’s warm embrace. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it puffs up into a glorious golden hue.
Once emerged from the oven’s warmth, dust the luscious form with powdered sugar, and if desired, adorn with festive sprinkles or a gentle drizzle of white chocolate — each detail echoing the joy of the season. Serve warm or at room temperature, allowing the aroma to linger in the air, inviting laughter and nostalgia.
How to serve Cream & Jam Puff Pastry Trees
These charming pastries beckon to be the centerpiece of your holiday table, an exquisite blend of beauty and taste. Slice them into sections and present them on a lovely platter, their golden edges glistening like stars. Pair with steaming cups of cocoa or a fragrant holiday tea, enhancing the flavors of the season as stories are shared and memories cherished.
How to store Cream & Jam Puff Pastry Trees
To preserve the magic after the celebration, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Enjoy them the next day as they retain their delightful pastry texture, reminding you of cherished moments spent together. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking; simply thaw and bake as directed whenever desire strikes.
Tips to make Cream & Jam Puff Pastry Trees
- Allow the puff pastry to rest for a few minutes after thawing to ensure a light, airy texture when baked.
- Experiment with different jams or even curds to personalize your filling — a lemon curd or spiced apple butter would enchant the palate beautifully.
- For added flavor, incorporate a hint of vanilla or almond extract into the cream cheese filling.
Variations
Consider turning these festive trees into delightful holiday wreaths by shaping the puff pastry into a circle, intertwining fillings of different jams or adding seasonal fruits and nuts to the mix, creating a unique tableau of taste and festivity.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the assembly and refrigerate it before baking. Simply brush with the egg wash just before baking.
Q: What types of jam can I use?
A: Any flavor you adore will work beautifully — from classic berry jams to spiced pear or fig preserves, let your creativity shine.
Q: How do I know when they are done baking?
A: Look for a luscious golden-brown color and a puffed appearance; a delightful aroma will also fill your kitchen.
In every fold of pastry and dollop of cream lies the essence of patience — a gentle reminder that baking is a cherished journey, where love and dedication bring forth each exquisite creation. The kitchen becomes a sanctuary, and in this quiet artistry, we discover the simple beauty that nourishes not just the body, but the soul.
Cream & Jam Puff Pastry Trees
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay one sheet of puff pastry on the prepared tray.
- Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or mascarpone over the pastry.
- Dollop and lightly swirl the jam over the cream layer.
- Place the second sheet of puff pastry on top, then cut out a large Christmas tree shape, ensuring the center remains intact.
- Make horizontal cuts along each side to form branches, then gently twist each branch.
- Whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash and brush it over the pastry tree.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until puffed up and golden brown.
- Dust with powdered sugar and optionally add festive sprinkles or white chocolate drizzle.