As the holiday season approaches, I find myself searching for that perfect recipe to bring cheer to the table. Imagine walking into a room filled with the enchanting aroma of freshly baked pastries, your guests’ eyes lighting up at the sight of these delightful Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze. I recently stumbled upon this show-stopping dish while experimenting with leftovers, and it turned into an instant favorite!
These elegant yet deceptively simple creations are a delicious blend of creamy burrata enveloped in flaky golden pastry, drizzled with a tangy cranberry glaze that adds a festive flair. Perfect for holiday gatherings, they’re not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the palate. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a home cook looking to impress, this versatile recipe elevates the ordinary into something extraordinary. Let’s dive in and create a stunning centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why will you love Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze?
A show-stopping centerpiece that will dazzle your guests at any gathering. Easy to make, even for beginner cooks, these delightful trees require just a few simple steps. Creamy burrata wrapped in flaky pastry delivers a mouthwatering combination that is hard to resist. Festive flair is added with a luscious cranberry glaze, making them a perfect holiday treat. No one will guess how effortlessly you created these, leaving them wanting to try your culinary magic at home!
Puff Pastry Trees Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Puff pastry sheets – These flaky sheets serve as the delightful outer layer, creating a beautiful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling.
• Egg – Use this for egg wash to achieve that golden, glossy finish on your puff pastry trees.
For the Filling
• Burrata cheese – The star ingredient—a creamy, rich filling that melts beautifully inside the pastry, making these Puff Pastry Trees irresistible.
For the Topping
• Cranberry glaze – A sweet and tangy drizzle that adds not only flavor but also a beautiful festive touch to your creations.
• Fresh herbs – These brighten the dish and provide a fresh aroma, elevating both the appearance and taste.
How to Make Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze
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Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the puff pastry package. This ensures your pastry bakes evenly and puffs beautifully.
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Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a clean surface. Cut them into triangular shapes, about 4–6 inches wide, to create the tree form.
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Place a piece of creamy burrata cheese at the base of each triangle. Gently roll the pastry around the cheese, forming a tree shape that’s ready for baking.
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Brush the outside of the pastry trees with the egg wash. This creates a lovely golden color and a shiny finish as they bake.
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Bake in the preheated oven until the pastry is puffed and golden brown—usually around 20-25 minutes, depending on your oven. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect color!
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Drizzle the cranberry glaze over the baked puff pastry trees while they are still warm. This adds a delightful tang and visual appeal to your tasty creation.
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Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving. It adds a pop of color and an aromatic element that enhances the overall experience.
Optional: Serve these trees warm for the best flavor experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the pastry trees up to 24 hours in advance by assembling them and placing them on a baking sheet. To maintain their flaky texture, cover the assembled trees with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to impress, simply remove them from the fridge, brush with the egg wash, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have delightful, fresh-baked appetizers ready to wow your guests with minimal effort—just as delicious with that homemade touch!
What to Serve with Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze?
Create a memorable meal that enchants the senses and delights your guests.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light, fresh salad balances the richness of the buttery pastry while adding a crunchy texture. Toss with a tangy vinaigrette for an uplifting contrast.
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Honey Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The sweetness of honey pairs beautifully with savory flavors, while their crispy edges create a delightful crunch alongside the creamy burrata filling.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup offers a comforting counterpoint to the flaky pastry. The acidity cuts through richness, making each bite a perfect harmony.
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Garlic Breadsticks: With their crispy exteriors and soft interiors, garlic breadsticks add a fun element to your meal. Dip these into the cranberry glaze for an unexpected twist!
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Sparkling White Wine: Elevate your dining experience with a glass of chilled sparkling white wine. Its bubbles and acidity complement the creamy burrata while keeping the atmosphere celebratory.
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Chocolate Fondue: For a sweet finale, serve chocolate fondue with fresh fruits and marshmallows for dipping. The warm, melted chocolate is a delightful contrast to the savory trees, ensuring no one leaves hungry!
Puff Pastry Trees Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with some fun twists and substitutions!
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Vegan: Swap burrata for vegan cheese, and use a plant-based milk for the egg wash to keep it cruelty-free.
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Herbed Delight: Add a blend of fresh herbs like basil or chives mixed into the burrata for an added layer of flavor. The aromatic infusion will elevate each bite!
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Spiced Up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the cranberry glaze for a spicy kick that coaxes out the richness of the cheese. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pistachios into the burrata filling, giving it a pleasant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
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Savory Add-In: Try mixing sautéed mushrooms with the burrata for an earthy, umami-rich filling that adds depth and interest. This combination is perfect for mushroom lovers!
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Sweet-and-Savory: Drizzle honey over the trees before serving alongside the cranberry glaze for a delightful sweet contrast. Each bite will sing with balanced flavors!
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Flavored Glazes: Experiment with different fruit glazes like blueberry or fig for a fun twist on flavor that complements the creamy burrata. The rich fruitiness will take your trees to another level!
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Bite-Sized Trees: Cut the puff pastry into smaller triangles for adorable appetizer-sized trees that are perfect for parties and gatherings, allowing guests to enjoy multiple bites without guilt!
How to Store and Freeze Puff Pastry Trees
Fridge: Store leftover Puff Pastry Trees in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore their flakiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked trees for up to 2 months. Wrap each in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat frozen trees, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warm and crisp.
Serve Fresh: These delightful pastries taste best when freshly baked, so enjoy them warm right after preparing for the ultimate experience!
Expert Tips for Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze
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Use Cold Pastry: Ensure your puff pastry sheets are cold when you start; this helps them puff up perfectly during baking.
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Watch Your Timing: Bake until golden brown—around 20-25 minutes— as undercooking can lead to a chewy texture instead of the desired flakiness.
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Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to add too much burrata; an overly stuffed pastry can burst open while baking, compromising your beautiful puff pastry trees.
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Perfect Egg Wash: Achieve a rich, glossy finish by whisking the egg thoroughly before brushing it on the pastry.
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Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different flavored glazes. Try raspberry or orange for a unique twist with your Puff Pastry Trees!
Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of burrata cheese?
Absolutely! When selecting burrata, look for freshness. The best burrata should be creamy and slightly soft to the touch, without any dark spots or blemishes. Ideally, it should be packaged not too far from its sell-by date, so you can enjoy it at its best.
What is the best way to store leftover Puff Pastry Trees?
After making these delightful pastries, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that golden crispness.
Can I freeze Puff Pastry Trees for future enjoyment?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each baked puff pastry tree tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my puff pastry doesn’t puff up as expected?
Very! If your puff pastry doesn’t puff well, it might be due to a couple of reasons. Make sure that your pastry is cold before baking, as warmth can hinder the puffing process. Additionally, ensure you don’t overcrowd the baking tray, allowing enough air to circulate. If you’re using a non-stick sheet, this helps as well, as it allows the heat to flow evenly.
Are there any dietary considerations for Puff Pastry Trees?
Great question! The primary concern is the burrata cheese, which contains dairy. So, if anyone has lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative that has a similar creamy texture. For those following a vegan diet, you can also explore plant-based puff pastry and fillings to create a similar delight!
Can I make Puff Pastry Trees ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pastry trees by assembling them and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prep them this way, just be cautious with the egg wash; apply it just before baking to achieve that perfect golden finish. This method allows you to save time when hosting, ensuring you can indulge in the fun with your guests!
Puff Pastry Trees with Burrata & Cranberry Glaze Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to the temperature indicated on the puff pastry package.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a clean surface and cut them into triangular shapes.
- Place a piece of creamy burrata cheese at the base of each triangle and roll the pastry around the cheese.
- Brush the outside of the pastry trees with egg wash.
- Bake in the preheated oven until puffed and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Drizzle the cranberry glaze over the baked pastry trees while warm.
- Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving.