Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Pizza Bites are such a fun and festive snack! They’re made with flaky puff pastry shaped like little Christmas trees, filled with gooey melted cheese and classic pizza toppings like pepperoni and marinara sauce. These bites are crispy on the outside and warm and cheesy inside, making them perfect for holiday parties or cozy nights in.
I love making these with my family because the shape makes everything feel extra special and merry. It’s such a simple way to add a little holiday cheer to a favorite treat. I usually let everyone help with shaping the trees and adding toppings—it turns cooking into a fun little holiday craft.
These bites are best served warm, straight from the oven with a side of extra marinara for dipping. I find they’re a great finger food that both kids and adults can enjoy without any fuss. They always disappear quickly whenever I bring them out, so I recommend making a double batch if you’re sharing at a party!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This is the star for a flaky, buttery base. If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use crescent roll dough for a softer, chewier bite, though the texture will be different.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh shredded mozzarella melts perfectly here. You can swap it for provolone or a mild cheddar if you want a different cheese flavor.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni gives a nice bite-sized topping. For a vegetarian version, try sliced olives, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers instead.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred pizza or pasta sauce. If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce first.
How Do You Make Puff Pastry Crispy and Flaky, Not Soggy?
Ensuring the pastry stays crispy is all about preventing soggy bottoms. Here’s how:
- Don’t overload with sauce: Spread a thin, even layer to keep the dough from getting too wet.
- Brush with egg wash: This helps seal the pastry and creates a beautiful golden color.
- Preheat your oven: A hot oven (around 400°F) lets the pastry puff and crisp quickly.
- Use parchment paper: It helps with even baking and easy cleanup.
With these tips, your bites will be perfectly crisp on the outside and soft and cheesy inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I prefer a rimmed one for even baking and easy handling.
- Parchment paper – keeps the pastry from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter – adds a festive touch and makes shaping simple.
- Pastry brush – helps evenly coat the pastry with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – for any trimming or extra shaping if needed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese swap: Try provolone or gouda for a smoky flavor instead of mozzarella.
- Meat options: Use cooked sausage slices or diced ham for a different taste.
- Veggie toppings: Add sliced bell peppers, olives, or cooked mushrooms for extra flavor and color.
- Herb variation: Use fresh basil or thyme instead of Italian herbs for a fresher taste.
Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Pizza Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed if frozen)
- ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 20-30 mini pepperoni slices
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or fresh rosemary)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, so in around 25 minutes, you’ll have warm, tasty pizza bites perfect for holiday snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the pizza bites from sticking and make cleanup easy.
2. Cut Out the Christmas Tree Shapes:
Roll out your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth out any creases. Use a Christmas tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out as many shapes as you can from the sheet. Carefully move the cut shapes to your prepared baking sheet.
3. Add Flavor and Toppings:
Brush each tree lightly with a beaten egg to help them brown beautifully. Next, spread a thin layer of marinara or pizza sauce on each tree, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Arrange mini pepperoni slices on top, and sprinkle with dried Italian herbs or fresh rosemary for a festive touch.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake your pizza bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed and golden, with bubbly melted cheese. Let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy your festive, delicious snacks!
Can I Use Frozen Puff Pastry for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before using. This makes it easier to roll out and prevents uneven baking.
How Can I Make These Pizza Bites Vegetarian?
Simply skip the pepperoni and add your favorite veggie toppings like sliced olives, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
You can cut and assemble the pizza bites a few hours ahead, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add the egg wash before popping them in the oven.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store extra pizza bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes to keep them crispy.
