If you’re dreaming of a festive appetizer that dazzles both the eyes and the taste buds, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe is exactly the treat you need to bring holiday cheer to your table. Imagine fluffy, golden-baked dough balls wrapped around melty mozzarella, arranged artfully in the shape of a Christmas tree, and brushed with garlicky herb butter and Parmesan. It’s an irresistible pull-apart bread that’s perfect for sharing, dipping, and delighting guests of all ages—truly the star of any holiday gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe lies in its simple yet purposeful ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance. From the dough’s tender crumb to the herbs’ fresh aroma, every element enhances the festive spirit of this pull-apart bread.
- 1 (13 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough: Provides the soft, pillowy base that bakes up beautifully golden and crisp on the outside.
- 6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks (cut into 1-inch pieces): Melts perfectly inside each dough ball for that gooey, cheesy surprise.
- 1 large egg + 1 tbsp water: Whisked together to create an egg wash, giving the bread a shiny, appetizing finish.
- 3 tbsp butter (melted): Used to make the flavorful garlic herb butter that’s brushed on after baking.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided): Adds salty richness and a savory crust when sprinkled on and mixed into the butter.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped): Gives a bright, fresh note and lovely green flecks for a festive touch.
- 1/2 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped): Introduces a fragrant, piney aroma reminiscent of Christmas trees.
- 1/2 tbsp fresh basil (finely chopped): Brings a slightly sweet, herbaceous depth that complements the cheese beautifully.
- 1 clove garlic (grated): Infuses the butter with a warm, savory bite that’s simply irresistible.
- Marinara and/or pesto (for dipping): Provides delicious dipping options that elevate each bite with fresh, complementary flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the bread bakes evenly and sticks won’t be a problem later.
Step 2: Prepare Dough and Cheese
Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into 30 equal squares, making sure each piece is just right for folding around the cheese. Slice the mozzarella sticks into 30 bite-sized, 1-inch pieces—these will become the delicious molten centers of your bread balls.
Step 3: Assemble Bread Balls
Place a piece of mozzarella in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough carefully around the cheese, pinching and sealing the edges to keep the cheese from escaping during baking. Roll each into a smooth ball; this ensures a uniform look and perfect bake.
Step 4: Shape the Christmas Tree
Arrange these dough balls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Position them so they touch each other in the iconic shape of a Christmas tree. This close placement is key—it turns individual bread balls into one delightful pull-apart experience.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
Whisk the egg and water together to make your egg wash. Lightly brush this over the tops of the dough balls to help them develop that gorgeous golden-brown sheen. Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes or until the bread looks perfectly golden and inviting.
Step 6: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping
While the bread bakes, melt your butter and stir in half of the grated Parmesan, the grated garlic, and all the chopped herbs. This flavorful butter will take the bread from great to unforgettable.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush it generously with your garlic herb butter mixture. Then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan on top for extra cheesy goodness and a savory crust. Serve warm alongside bowls of marinara and pesto for dipping, and watch as everyone reaches in for another pull-apart piece.
How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top after baking for a fresh splash of color and flavor that enhances the festive look. If you want a little extra indulgence, a light dusting of paprika or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick and visual contrast.
Side Dishes
This pull-apart bread pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a warm bowl of minestrone or tomato basil soup for dipping. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the cheesy bread.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe on a large wooden or festive platter to highlight the tree shape. Add little star-shaped cheese pieces at the peak, or tuck in sprigs of rosemary and parsley to mimic pine branches. For a party, place breadsticks shaped like candy canes around the edges to complete your holiday spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bread tender and maintains the cheese’s soft, melty texture. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the bread.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble and shape your bread but do not bake. Wrap the entire pan with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover bread in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warm and the cheese is melty again. You can also microwave individual pieces on low power for 20-30 seconds, but the oven method helps preserve the bread’s texture the best.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for different flavors and textures. Just make sure the cheese melts well and complements the herbs and bread.
Is it okay to use store-bought pizza dough?
Definitely! This recipe is designed with convenience in mind, and store-bought dough works perfectly. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before you start working with it to achieve the best texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, with some substitutions. Use vegan cheese sticks and a vegan butter alternative. Also, replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or oil brush to get a golden crust.
How long will the bread stay fresh after baking?
Freshly baked, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal flavor and texture. Beyond that, the bread may start to lose its softness and the cheese texture can change.
Can I add toppings before baking?
You can sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top before baking for additional texture and look. However, save the garlic butter and Parmesan topping for after baking to keep those flavors bright and fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings joy, warmth, and festive fun to any holiday gathering. Its irresistible cheese pull, fragrant herb butter, and playful presentation make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try making it for your next celebration—you’re going to love every delicious, gooey bite!
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Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a festive and fun pull-apart bread perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with bite-sized mozzarella-filled dough balls arranged in a Christmas tree shape, baked until golden, and topped with a savory garlic herb butter and Parmesan cheese, this recipe offers an irresistible combination of gooey cheese and flavorful herbs. Served with marinara or pesto for dipping, it makes a delightful appetizer or party snack to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese
- 1 (13 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
- 6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 30 pieces)
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
Garlic Herb Butter Topping
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, grated
Dipping Sauces (optional)
- Marinara sauce
- Pesto sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare Dough and Cheese: Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into 30 equal squares. Slice the mozzarella sticks into 30 bite-sized 1-inch pieces, ensuring one piece per dough square.
- Assemble Bread Balls: Place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough edges over the cheese, sealing tightly, then roll each into a smooth ball to encase the cheese completely.
- Shape the Christmas Tree: Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a Christmas tree shape, making sure the dough balls touch each other to create a pull-apart bread effect.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the tops of the dough balls lightly with the egg wash to promote browning and create a glossy finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Topping: While the bread bakes, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, the grated garlic, and the chopped fresh parsley, rosemary, and basil to infuse the butter with herb flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Once the bread is out of the oven, generously brush the garlic herb butter mixture over the top. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly on the bread. Serve warm alongside marinara or pesto sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure to seal the dough edges well around the cheese to prevent melting cheese leaking during baking.
- Use fresh herbs for best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if needed; reduce quantity accordingly.
- Serving with warm marinara or pesto enhances the taste and provides a delightful dipping experience.
- This bread is best served fresh and warm but can be reheated gently to retain softness and cheese melt.
- Feel free to customize the cheese filling or add seasonings like garlic powder inside the dough for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
