As the holiday season rolls in, my kitchen transforms into a magical workshop filled with enchanting aromas and festive cheer. One of my favorite creations is this delightful Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread—an irresistible holiday appetizer that’s certain to impress your guests. What makes it truly special is how quickly it comes together, making it a perfect solution for those last-minute gatherings. The combination of warm, buttery dough and gooey mozzarella is simply delightful, ensuring everyone around the table is reaching for just one more piece. Are you ready to surprise and delight your loved ones with this fun and festive treat? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Is This Bread So Festive? Uniquely Shaped: The Christmas tree form turns an ordinary appetizer into a stunning centerpiece, igniting holiday spirit. Decadent Cheese: With gooey mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, each bite is a cheesy delight that melts in your mouth. Easy Preparation: Crafted in just a few simple steps, this pull-apart bread is quick to whip up for unexpected guests. Customizable Flavors: Make it your own by adding pepperoni or spinach, or switch to cheddar for a twist! Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for festive gatherings, everyone will find joy in tearing apart this communal treat, just like my Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole at family dinners. Perfect Pairing: Serve it warm with marinara or pesto for dipping—whether it’s a cocktail party or a cozy night in, this bread promises to charm your guests! Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Ingredients For the Dough • Refrigerated Pizza Dough – Ideal base for creating that fun pull-apart texture. Can substitute with crescent roll dough, but baking time may vary. For the Filling • Mozzarella Cheese Sticks – Provides that irresistibly melty center. You can substitute with mozzarella pearls; make sure to dry well before use to prevent sogginess. For the Egg Wash • Large Egg – Grants a beautiful golden finish when brushed on before baking. If you prefer, you can use milk as an egg substitute. For Basting • Butter – Adds flavor and moisture; melted butter can be mixed with garlic and herbs for an extra kick. For Topping • Grated Parmesan Cheese – This savory sprinkle elevates the bread’s flavor. Feel free to use other hard cheeses as a substitute. For Freshness • Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Rosemary, Basil) – They enhance the flavor profile with delightful freshness. Dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities (1 tablespoon fresh = 1 teaspoon dried). For Aroma • Grated Garlic – Infuses a heavenly aroma into the bread. Garlic powder can be a substitute (1 clove = 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder). For Dipping • Marinara Sauce or Pesto – A perfect complement to the cheesy goodness. Choose your favorite, or serve both for variety! This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is sure to impress everyone at your festive gathering, inviting all to partake in the joy of delicious, homemade food! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This essential first step ensures that the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread will bake evenly, resulting in a perfect golden crust. Set the prepared baking sheet aside while you prepare the dough. Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough on a clean surface. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 30 equal squares, each about 3 inches. This step is crucial for creating the perfect pull-apart portions that guests will adore. Keep the squares together to maintain their freshness while you prepare the filling. Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces. It’s important to aim for pieces that are roughly 1 inch long, ensuring they fit snugly in the dough without overwhelming it. Place each cheese piece in a small bowl nearby, ready to be added to the dough squares in the next step. Step 4: Assemble the Dough Balls Take a square of dough and place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center. Gently fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the seams together to form a sealed ball. Repeat this process for all dough squares, ensuring each ball is tightly sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking during baking. Step 5: Shape into a Christmas Tree Arrange the formed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in a Christmas tree shape, ensuring the balls are closely touching without overlapping. This arrangement not only creates a festive look but also facilitates easy pulling apart when it’s time to serve your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. Step 6: Prepare the Egg Wash In a small bowl, whisk together the large egg and a tablespoon of water until well combined. This egg wash will provide a beautiful golden finish to your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread as it bakes. Use a pastry brush to generously apply the mixture over each dough ball, ensuring an even coating. Step 7: Bake the Bread Place the assembled bread in the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes. Watch for the dough to turn golden brown and puff up nicely—this visual cue means it’s time to take it out. The aroma of cheesy goodness will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! Step 8: Baste with Flavor While the bread is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Once melted, stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, and chopped herbs for added flavor. After removing the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread from the oven, use a brush to generously baste the flavorful mixture over the warm bread. Step 9: Final Touches and Serve Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top of your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread for an extra touch of savory flavor. Serve the bread warm, accompanied by a bowl of marinara sauce or pesto for dipping. Your guests will be delighted to pull apart pieces of this festive treat! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its crispy texture. Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring no air is trapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To enjoy frozen bread, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm and melted inside. Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep the bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 hours to prevent it from drying out. Variations & Substitutions for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Feel free to customize this delightful bread to suit your taste or dietary needs, creating a unique culinary masterpiece. Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese with plant-based cheese alternatives for a delicious non-dairy option without sacrificing flavor. Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier twist that adds a nutty flavor to each bite. Herb Infusion: Add fresh garlic or rosemary directly into the dough for an aromatic kick that will tantalize your senses. Spiciness: Incorporate jalapeño slices or red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy version that will warm you up from the inside out. Sweet Variation: Try filling the dough with chocolate pieces for a sweet treat, then drizzle with warm chocolate sauce before serving. It’s a fun twist that kids love! Additional Fillings: Add diced pepperoni or cooked spinach into the cheese filling for a savory burst that elevates the flavor profile. Cheesy Medley: Experiment with different cheese combinations like smoked gouda or sharp cheddar for a gourmet flavor experience. Cheese lovers will rejoice! Fun Shapes: Instead of a Christmas tree, shape the bread into a festive star or a wreath. It’s a great way to switch things up while keeping the bread just as scrumptious! If you’re looking for more cheesy goodness, check out my Cheesy Chicken Spinach and feel free to experiment. Enjoy! Expert Tips for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Avoid Overfilling: Make sure to use 1-inch pieces of cheese to prevent overflow, ensuring that all gooey goodness stays inside each ball. Dough Consistency: For best results, keep the pizza dough cold until you’re ready to work with it, making it easier to handle and shape into the tree. Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven in the last few minutes; baking times may vary based on your oven and dough type, so pull it out when golden brown. Egg Wash Tips: Apply the egg wash generously for that beautiful golden color—don’t skimp, as it enhances the visual appeal of the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. Extra Flavor Boost: Mix herbs into the melted butter for basting after baking; this extra step amplifies flavor and aroma, making your appetizer irresistible. Serving Suggestions: Pair the bread with a variety of dips like marinara and pesto to cater to different tastes, adding to the festive experience. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Breads are a fantastic make-ahead option for busy holiday cooks! You can prepare the dough balls filled with mozzarella up to 24 hours in advance. Simply form the balls and place them on your baking sheet in the tree shape, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, avoid adding the egg wash until right before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush the dough balls with the egg wash and bake for 16-18 minutes at 400°F. You’ll enjoy perfect, golden-brown bread with minimal fuss, ready to impress your guests at a moment’s notice! What to Serve with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Elevate your festive gathering with delightful accompaniments that enhance the joy of sharing this warm, cheesy pull-apart bread. Crispy Garlic Breadsticks: Perfectly seasoned, these provide a crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft, gooey cheese in the bread. Fresh Garden Salad: A light, vibrant mix of greens and vegetables adds freshness, helping to balance the richness of the cheesy treat. Savory Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip pairs beautifully with the bread, inviting guests to enjoy a delightful melding of flavors. Serve this alongside a festive fruit platter. The sweetness of ripe, juicy fruits presents a lovely contrast and brightens up your spread. Wine or Sparkling Cider: A crisp white wine or bubbly cider introduces an elegant touch to your gathering, ensuring every bite of cheesy goodness is complemented perfectly. Mix and match these ideas to create a memorable meal that celebrates the spirit of the season! Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs What type of pizza dough is best for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using refrigerated pizza dough because it provides that delicious, chewy texture perfect for pull-apart bread. If you prefer a flakier option, crescent roll dough is a great substitute, but remember to adjust the baking time slightly as it can cook faster. How should I store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread? Store any leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to regain its crispy texture and gooey center. It’s like bringing the warmth of the holiday back to your kitchen! Can I freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread? What’s the best way to do it? Absolutely! To freeze your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, first, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through and melty inside. What if I have trouble sealing the dough balls? No worries! It’s a common issue. When rolling the dough around the cheese, make sure to pinch the seams tightly to avoid leakage. If you find the dough is too sticky, a light dusting of flour on your hands can help. Also, ensure you’re not overfilling each dough ball with cheese; about 1-inch pieces work best to keep them contained. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, you can modify the recipe. For those with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free cheese alternatives or adjusting the filling with sautéed vegetables. Always check labels to ensure you’re accounting for any allergies. And if you have guests who prefer a vegetarian option, this bread is perfect as is—just skip any meat fillings! Can I prepare the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can! Prepare the dough balls and arrange them in the Christmas tree shape on the baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours before baking. This way, you can save time right before your gathering, and then simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve this delightful Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs! Deliciously Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread for Festive Gatherings This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful appetizer perfect for festive gatherings, combining gooey cheese and warm buttery dough. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 18 minutes minsBasting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 53 minutes mins Servings: 8 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: ItalianCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 package Refrigerated Pizza Dough Can substitute with crescent roll doughFor the Filling30 pieces Mozzarella Cheese Sticks Substitute with mozzarella pearls if neededFor the Egg Wash1 large Egg Can substitute with milkFor Basting4 tablespoons Butter Melted butter can be mixed with garlic and herbsFor Topping1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Feel free to use other hard cheesesFor Freshness1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Rosemary, Basil) Dried herbs can be used in smaller quantitiesFor Aroma2 cloves Grated Garlic Garlic powder can be a substituteFor Dipping1 cup Marinara Sauce or Pesto Choose your favorite, or serve both Equipment ovenBaking sheetParchment papermixing bowlPastry Brushknife Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Christmas Tree BreadPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough and slice it into 30 equal squares (about 3 inches each).Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch long.Place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square and fold the dough over the cheese to form sealed balls.Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet in a Christmas tree shape, ensuring they touch but do not overlap.Whisk together the egg and a tablespoon of water, then brush the mixture over each dough ball.Bake the assembled bread for 16-18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.Melt the butter and mix in half of the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baste this mixture over the warm bread after baking.Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top and serve warm with marinara or pesto. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesStore leftover bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispy texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
