If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that brings a festive flair and deliciously savory flavors together, the Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe is your new holiday hero. This fun and visually impressive dish wraps the buttery, flaky texture of crescent rolls around a flavorful cream cheese, bacon, and herb filling, all shaped into a charming Christmas tree. Not only will it brighten your holiday table, but it’s surprisingly easy to make, impressing guests with both taste and presentation. Get ready to wow your friends and family with a recipe that has quickly become a seasonal favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients can deliver spectacular results, and this Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe is proof. Each item plays a crucial role by adding layers of flavor and texture—from the creamy richness of the cream cheese to the savory crunch of bacon, plus the fresh, herby notes that tie everything together perfectly.
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls: These provide the flaky, buttery base that’s easy to shape and bake into tree branches.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds a smooth, creamy center that balances the savory fillings.
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 16 slices): Gives smoky crunch and savory punch essential to this appetizer.
- 2 large garlic cloves (finely minced): Infuses a gentle garlic warmth that enhances flavor without overpowering.
- ½ cup chives (finely chopped): Adds fresh, mild onion notes and a vibrant green color.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Brushed on top for a golden finish and rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): For a fresh, herbaceous garnish that brightens the dish visually and in taste.
How to Make Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese with the finely minced garlic, chopped chives, and crumbled bacon. This blend is the heart of your tree, full of creamy texture and bursts of smoky, fresh flavor. Stir everything together until well combined, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed so every bite sings with flavor.
Step 2: Roll Out Crescent Dough
Unroll both cans of crescent rolls onto a large piece of parchment paper or a clean surface, pressing the seams together to form one large rectangle. This will become the canvas for your Christmas tree shape, so ensure it’s even and smooth. The crescent dough’s buttery layers will puff up beautifully during baking, creating a flaky crust that’s hard to resist.
Step 3: Assemble the Tree
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges. Using a knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into strips about 1-inch wide, cutting from one long side to the other but leaving the center strip intact to serve as the tree trunk. Carefully twist each strip away from the center twice to form “branches,” which gives the tree its recognizable, festive look.
Step 4: Shape and Brush
Once all the strips are twisted and positioned neatly, gently lift the entire tree piece and place it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the melted butter all over the dough to promote a golden, shiny finish during baking. You can also sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top at this stage for added green color and freshness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the tree in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until the crescent roll dough turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The intoxicating aroma of garlic, bacon, and buttery pastry will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe is ready to wow your guests.
How to Serve Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate the look and taste further by garnishing with additional chopped fresh parsley or chives after baking. These herbs add a fresh burst of color and subtle flavor contrast to the rich, creamy interior. A few sprigs of rosemary placed around the base can also mimic pine needles for extra seasonal charm.
Side Dishes
This appetizer pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides that balance out its richness. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully, or try serving it alongside a fresh tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing bite. These sides keep things bright and fresh next to the indulgent crescent rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra festive display, serve your Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe on a platter decorated with radishes sliced to resemble ornaments or with cherry tomatoes “hanging” from the branches. You can also add small bowls of dipping sauces like ranch or a spicy aioli around the platter, inviting guests to customize each bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Left overs can be enjoyed cold or warmed up for a quick snack.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked Crescent Roll Christmas Tree for up to a month. Simply prepare it as instructed, wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual, ensuring a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain that flaky crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough soggy. This method will bring the flavors back to life and maintain the tree’s delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe?
Absolutely! While cream cheese provides that rich, creamy foundation, mixing in shredded mozzarella or cheddar can add a fun twist. Just keep in mind it might affect the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to add an earthy flavor. You can also use vegetarian bacon alternatives to keep that smoky element.
Can the Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe be made gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free crescent roll dough brand if available. Just make sure the rest of your ingredients are gluten-free as well. The shape and assembly remain the same, so you won’t miss out on any holiday fun.
How far in advance can I assemble this before baking?
You can assemble the tree a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This makes it a great make-ahead appetizer option during busy holiday gatherings.
What dips complement the Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe?
Popular choices include ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a zesty marinara sauce. These dips add an extra layer of flavor and make each bite an exciting combination of tastes.
Final Thoughts
This Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe is more than just a festive appetizer; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together with its irresistible taste and whimsical presentation. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party, a family gathering, or simply to brighten up a chilly winter day, it’s bound to become a cherished tradition. So go ahead, roll up those sleeves, grab your ingredients, and create a delicious holiday centerpiece that everyone will remember!
Print
Crescent Roll Christmas Tree Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crescent Roll Christmas Tree is a festive and delicious appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Flaky crescent rolls are layered with a savory cream cheese, bacon, garlic, chive, and parsley filling, then twisted into a beautiful tree shape and baked until golden brown. It’s an eye-catching and flavorful dish that will impress guests and add holiday cheer to your table.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent rolls
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 16 slices)
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- ½ cup chives, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Assembly:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled bacon, minced garlic, chopped chives, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly integrated into a spreadable mixture.
- Assemble the Tree Base: Unroll the first can of crescent rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press the seams together firmly to form a large rectangle without perforations.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread half of the cream cheese and bacon mixture over the first crescent dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Second Layer: Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and press the seams together, just like the first. Place this second dough rectangle directly on top of the filling-covered dough. Press gently to seal the layers.
- Cut and Twist Branches: Using a sharp knife, cut the layered dough into 3 equal strips lengthwise. Starting from the center strip, cut about 10 slits on each side to create branches. Twist each branch away from the center several times, keeping the shape intact to resemble a tree.
- Shape the Tree: Fold the bottom of the middle strip upward to form the trunk of the tree, and arrange the twisted branches neatly around it.
- Brush with Butter: Brush the entire tree with melted unsalted butter to give it a golden color when baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the tree on the lined baking sheet for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the tree from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to handle.
Notes
- You can substitute bacon with cooked sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Try adding shredded cheese to the filling for extra flavor.
- If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
- Serve with sour cream or ranch dressing as a dip.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy spreading.
