Ham & Cheese Christmas Trees

Preheat the oven to 220^o. 

Gently unroll the pastry and cut in half using a sharp knife. Roll each half out on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle shape. 

Spread an even layer of cream cheese onto the one of the rolled out pastries. Top with a layer of sliced ham, then a slice of cheese. Carefully place the other sheet of pastry on top and trim the edges. 

Slice the rectangle into 8 thin strips. Fold each strip like an accordion with the next fold shorter than the last to resemble the shape of a Christmas tree. Push a skewer through the center, leaving about 2cm exposed on the top. 

Place the Christmas trees onto a lined baking tray and brush with egg wash. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Meanwhile melt the butter and add the minced garlic and parsley. Mix well.

Whilst the pastries are still warm, brush them with the butter mixture. 

Use a small star cookie cutter to cut star shapes out of the gouda. Use this to top each Christmas tree and serve immediately.