Churro Nutella Holiday Tree (Pastry Tree) Recipe
This Churro Nutella Holiday Tree is a festive and delicious pastry perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with flaky puff pastry layers filled with Nutella, twisted into a Christmas tree shape, and finished with a cinnamon sugar topping, this treat combines a crispy texture with a rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor. Easy to prepare and visually impressive, it makes a great centerpiece for dessert tables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert, Pastry
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Ingredients
Pastry Tree Ingredients
- 2 sheets puff pastry (semi-frozen)
- 2 tablespoons Nutella
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar (or 1 tablespoon sugar mixed with 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Shape and Fill Pastry: Cut both puff pastry sheets into Christmas tree shapes. On one sheet, evenly spread the Nutella. Then, place the other pastry sheet on top, aligning the edges carefully.
- Create Slits and Twists: Transfer the assembled pastry to the lined baking sheet. Cut slits about 1-inch (2 cm) apart along both sides of the tree shape, making sure to leave the center intact to hold the shape. Twist each strip of pastry twice, pressing the ends gently onto the baking sheet to secure.
- Make the Star Topper: Using leftover pastry, cut out two star shapes. Spread Nutella on one star and sandwich it with the other. Place this star at the top of the tree on the baking sheet.
- Egg Wash and Bake: Mix the egg yolk with a little water and brush this mixture generously over the entire pastry tree to achieve a golden finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown.
- Finish with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar: Allow the baked tree to cool for 5 minutes. Then, lightly brush with melted butter and sprinkle evenly with cinnamon sugar to enhance flavor and add a sweet, crunchy coating.
Notes
- Use semi-frozen puff pastry as it is easier to handle and shape.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute Nutella with a vegan chocolate-hazelnut spread and use plant-based butter.
- Cinnamon sugar adds an authentic churro flavor; adjust the amount to taste.
- Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
- Star shapes can be made using cookie cutters or freehand with a knife.