Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holidays approach, my kitchen transforms into a wonderland of warmth and creativity, where each dish sparks joy and brings people together. One of my absolute favorites during this festive season is the Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken. It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful centerpiece that captures the spirit of celebration while satisfying those snack cravings. This easy recipe features a crispy pizza dough filled with savory ham and gooey cheese, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Plus, it’s a fantastic finger food that will impress your guests with its unique presentation. Who wouldn’t love to grab a piece of this festive tree? Ready to deck your table with this merry masterpiece? Let’s dive into the delicious details! Why Is This Pizza So Special? Festive Fun: The Pizza Weihnachtsbaum is not just a meal; it’s a delightful centerpiece that sparks joy at any holiday gathering. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels, allowing you to focus on fun and creativity. Savory Sensation: The combination of gooey cheese and savory ham creates an irresistible flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe with various fillings, like mushrooms or colorful veggies, to suit your guests’ tastes. For more delicious finger food ideas, check out my Pretzel Bites Cheese recipe! Pizza Weihnachtsbaum Ingredients For the Dough • XXL Pizzateig (550g) – The base of our delightful tree; you can use gluten-free dough if needed. For the Filling • Kräftiger Käse (4 Scheiben, ca. 200g) – Adds a rich, savory flavor; feel free to swap with a vegan cheese option. • Schinken (4 Scheiben, ca. 200g) – Provides a hearty filling; vegetarian ham is a tasty substitute. • Crème fraîche mit Gartenkräutern (100g) – Brings a creamy texture and extra taste; fresh herb cream cheese works well here. For the Decoration • Käse am Stück (200g) – Use for cutting out star shapes; any good-melting cheese will do the trick. • Lange Holzspieße (8 Stück) – Essential for maintaining the structure of your Christmas tree; metal skewers can be an alternative. For the Finishing Touch • Kräuterbutter (50g) – Brush on post-baking to enhance the aroma; melted herb butter is another great option. Get ready to create your own Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken that will steal the show! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken Step 1: Prepare the Dough Begin by preheating your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Roll out the XXL Pizzateig on a floured surface until it’s about 0.5 cm thick. Spread a generous layer of Crème fraîche mit Gartenkräutern across one half of the dough, ensuring you reach the edges for maximum flavor. This will serve as the creamy, delicious base for your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum. Step 2: Add the Filling Layer four slices of kräftiger Käse evenly over the Crème fraîche, followed by the four slices of Schinken. Carefully fold the unspread half of the dough over the filled half to create a pocket of savory goodness. Press down gently on the edges to seal in all that melted cheese and ham, ensuring it stays juicy during baking. Step 3: Shape Your Tree Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into eight equal-width strips, about 2-3 cm wide. Carefully twist each strip to form a triangle shape that mimics the branches of a Christmas tree. Stack the twisted strips on top of each other, with the bottom being the widest to stabilize the shape. Secure the entire formation with a long wooden skewer, leaving around 2 cm at the top free for decoration. Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place your shaped Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken onto it, ensuring they are spaced out adequately. This will allow hot air to circulate around each tree as they bake, helping them become golden brown and crispy. Step 5: Bake to Perfection Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 22 minutes, or until the Pizzateig turns a lovely golden color and the cheese begins to bubble. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning, as you want the outside to be nicely crisp while the inside remains cheesy and delicious. Step 6: Finish with Flavor While your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum is baking, melt the Kräuterbutter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the trees are out of the oven, brush them generously with the melted butter for added aroma and richness. This finishing touch elevates the festive spirit and adds a delightful shine. Step 7: Decorate Your Trees For an adorable finishing touch, use a small star cutter to cut shapes from the Käse am Stück. Spear these cheese stars onto the tips of the skewers sticking out of the top of your delicious holiday trees. This not only enhances the festive look but also gives a bonus cheesy bite to every piece of your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum! How to Store and Freeze Pizza Weihnachtsbaum Fridge: Store any leftover Pizza Weihnachtsbaum in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispy texture. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the baked Pizza Weihnachtsbaum. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can last for up to 1 month. Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven at 180°C until warmed through and crispy again. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but these storage tips will keep your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken delicious for later! Make Ahead Options These delightful Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply assemble the pizza trees and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain their quality, make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven and bake as instructed, adding an extra minute if they are chilled. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have a stunning festive snack ready to wow your guests with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Pizza Weihnachtsbaum Consistent Cutting: Ensure that the dough strips are cut evenly; uneven sizes can lead to a lopsided tree. Seal It Tight: Press the edges firmly when folding the dough to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Customize Colors: Add colorful veggies like bell peppers or tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and a more festive look. Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum as it bakes. Golden brown is the goal, so set a timer to avoid over-baking. Add Extra Toppings: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle some herbs or grated cheese on top before baking for a gourmet touch. What to Serve with Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken When celebrating the festive season, pairing the delightful Pizza Weihnachtsbaum with complementary sides can create an unforgettable meal experience. Crisp Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheesy pizza beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: Sweet and caramelized, seasoned roasted veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add heartiness and colors to your festive table. Garlic Breadsticks: Buttery, garlicky breadsticks offer a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping into any leftover crème fraîche sauce! Winter Fruit Platter: Vibrant seasonal fruits such as pomegranates and oranges bring a sweet and refreshing contrast to the savory elements. Mulled Wine: Warm spices and fruity notes in a mug of mulled wine create a cozy atmosphere, enhancing your holiday dining experience. Chocolate Fondue: End the meal on a sweet note with a delightful chocolate fondue tower and fresh fruits for dipping, bringing joy to all ages. These pairing suggestions perfectly complement the festive flair of your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken! Pizza Weihnachtsbaum Variations & Substitutions Feel free to personalize your Pizza Weihnachtsbaum with these fun, delicious variations that inspire creativity and flavor! Gluten-Free Dough: Substitute with gluten-free pizza dough for a delightful alternative that everyone can enjoy. Vegan Cheese: Use a dairy-free cheese to make this festive treat vegan-friendly without compromising on flavor. Vegetarian Ham: Replace traditional ham with vegetarian alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty option. Creamy Alternatives: Swap Crème fraîche with a flavorful herb-infused cream cheese for a rich, creamy filling. Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or jalapeños to the filling for a zesty twist that will liven up your holiday gathering! Cheese Blend: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda, for unique tastes in each bite. Colorful Veggie Decoration: Use bell pepper stars or cherry tomatoes as decoration for a vibrant, color-enhancing finish. Herb Boost: Mix fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the filling to elevate the savory experience. Whether you’re feeling adventurous or sticking to tradition, the Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken can be adapted to suit every palate. And if you’re curious about more cheese-filled delights, don’t forget to check out my mouthwatering Cinnamon Swirl Bundt or explore the fun of Pretzel Bites Cheese for your next get-together! Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right ripeness of ingredients? Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh cheese and ham. Look for cheese that has a smooth texture and is free from dark spots, indicating freshness. The ham should be from a reliable source and not overly processed for that delicious, savory taste. How should I store leftovers? Very! Leftover Pizza Weihnachtsbaum can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the texture crisp, reheat slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes. Microwaving isn’t recommended, as it can make the crust chewy. Can I freeze Pizza Weihnachtsbaum? Of course! For longer storage, you can freeze your baked Pizza Weihnachtsbaum. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; this will prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 1 month! What if my dough isn’t holding its shape? No worries! Make sure you’re cutting the strips of dough evenly before twisting. If the shape is not firm, you might want to place it back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking; this will help firm it up, leading to a better structure during baking. Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies? Yes, be cautious! While the ingredients are perfect for human consumption, avoid giving any leftovers made with ham or cheese to pets, as these can upset their digestion. Additionally, if anyone at your gathering has a dairy allergy, you can substitute with vegan cheese and be mindful of gluten if using traditional dough. What can I use as alternatives for the filling? Definitely! You can mix and match with different fillings. Try sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach for a unique twist. Aim for a balance of flavors while ensuring they’re cooked before adding to the dough for the best results. Delicious Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken Magic Create a festive Pizza Weihnachtsbaum mit Käse und Schinken, a delightful centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 22 minutes minsTotal Time 52 minutes mins Servings: 8 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough550 g XXL Pizzateig Gluten-free dough can be used if needed.For the Filling200 g Kräftiger Käse Feel free to swap with a vegan cheese option.200 g Schinken Vegetarian ham is a tasty substitute.100 g Crème fraîche mit Gartenkräutern Fresh herb cream cheese works well here.For the Decoration200 g Käse am Stück Good-melting cheese is ideal.8 pieces Lange Holzspieße Metal skewers can be an alternative.For the Finishing Touch50 g Kräuterbutter Melted herb butter is another great option. Equipment OvenBaking Trayparchment paperSharp KnifeWooden skewers Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Roll out the XXL Pizzateig on a floured surface until it's about 0.5 cm thick. Spread a generous layer of Crème fraîche mit Gartenkräutern across one half of the dough, ensuring you reach the edges for maximum flavor.Layer four slices of kräftiger Käse evenly over the Crème fraîche, followed by the four slices of Schinken. Carefully fold the unspread half of the dough over the filled half to create a pocket of savory goodness. Press down gently on the edges to seal in all that melted cheese and ham.Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into eight equal-width strips, about 2-3 cm wide. Carefully twist each strip to form a triangle shape that mimics the branches of a Christmas tree. Stack the twisted strips on top of each other, securing with a long wooden skewer.Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place your shaped Pizza Weihnachtsbaum onto it, ensuring they are spaced out adequately.Bake for about 15 to 22 minutes, or until the Pizzateig turns a lovely golden color and the cheese begins to bubble.Melt the Kräuterbutter in a saucepan over low heat. Brush the baked Pizza Weihnachtsbaum with the melted butter.Use a small star cutter to cut shapes from the Käse am Stück and spear these cheese stars onto the tips of the skewers for decoration. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg NotesStore any leftover Pizza Weihnachtsbaum in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore its crispy texture. For long-term storage, freeze it for up to 1 month. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
