# What You'll Need:
→ Puff Pastry
01 - 2 sheets puff pastry, thawed (8.8 oz each)
→ Filling
02 - 4.2 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 2 tbsp basil pesto
04 - 1 garlic clove, minced
05 - 1 oz grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
07 - Salt and pepper, to taste
→ Topping
08 - 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
09 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds
10 - 1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional)
# How To Make It:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Combine cream cheese, basil pesto, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl; mix until smooth.
03 - Unroll one puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a 0.4 inch border.
04 - Place the second puff pastry sheet over the first and press gently to seal the edges.
05 - Using a sharp knife, outline a large Christmas tree shape (triangle with a trunk) through both layers. Remove excess dough and save for decorations.
06 - Starting from the bottom, cut horizontal strips about 0.8 inch wide on both sides, leaving the central trunk intact.
07 - Twist each strip away from the tree center 2 to 3 times to form branches.
08 - Cut stars or ornaments from leftover dough and place them on the tree.
09 - Brush the entire tree with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional poppy seeds.
10 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
11 - Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving warm or at room temperature.
