The aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with garlicky warmth can ignite the festive spirit in anyone. This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread captures that essence beautifully, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful holiday appetizer. With its easy-to-prepare pull-apart design, this recipe makes it effortless for everyone at your gathering to dig in and enjoy. The gooey mozzarella nestled inside each buttery ball creates a dreamy cheesy experience that even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist. Plus, it offers room for creativity—feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs! As you gather around the table, don’t you want to share a dish that turns your holiday celebration into a delicious memory? Let’s get baking! Why Is This Bread So Amazing? Festively Fun: This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread brings a playful twist to your holiday gatherings, making it the perfect centerpiece at your table. Effortless Prep: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a stunning appetizer ready in no time. Gooey Goodness: Packed with melty mozzarella, each bite offers a delightful stretch that cheese lovers crave. Versatile: Feel free to make it your own! Swap in different herbs or cheeses, or try adding a touch of pepperoni for an extra kick. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for sharing, this pull-apart bread encourages everyone to join in on the fun, making it a must-have for any holiday gathering. Enjoy with marinara or pesto for the ultimate dipping experience! Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Ingredients Here’s everything you need to create this festive delight! For the Dough Canned Refrigerated Pizza Dough – It provides the perfect base; you can substitute with homestyle or crescent roll dough if preferred. Egg (1) + Water (1 tbsp) – This egg wash ensures a beautiful golden crust; milk also works for brushing instead. For the Filling Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (6-7) – Create that gooey interior everyone loves; alternatively, try mozzarella pearls or cubed cheddar. Grated Garlic (1 clove) – Infuses the bread with aromatic flavor; swap it out with garlic powder for simplicity. For the Toppings Butter (3 tbsp, melted) – Adds richness and a savory taste; olive oil is a lighter substitute. Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, divided) – Introduces a sharp, creamy flavor to the bread; feel free to use any hard cheese as a replacement. Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped) – Offers a burst of freshness; use 1 tsp of dried parsley if that’s what you have on hand. Fresh Rosemary (½ tbsp, chopped) – Complements the bread beautifully; Italian seasoning blend can be a great alternative. Fresh Basil (½ tbsp, chopped) – Adds delightful herb notes; dried basil (1 tsp) can also work in a pinch. For Dipping Marinara/Pesto Sauce – Elevates the overall experience with extra flavor; any preferred sauce can serve as a delicious alternative. Get ready to bake your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread and watch it become the highlight of your holiday table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This setup is essential for achieving that beautiful golden brown crust on your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, ensuring easy cleanup afterward. Step 2: Prepare the Dough Lightly flour your countertop and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 30 equal squares. Make sure to maintain even sizing so that each piece can hold a delightful piece of mozzarella cheese, creating that gooey filling everyone loves. Step 3: Fill the Dough Squares Take your mozzarella cheese sticks and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Place one piece of cheese at the center of each dough square. Carefully fold the dough around the cheese, pinching the edges to seal tightly, forming small balls. Proper sealing is crucial to prevent the melted cheese from leaking out while baking. Step 4: Shape the Christmas Tree Arrange the sealed dough balls on the lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Start with a triangular formation, keeping the balls touching slightly to encourage a cohesive pull-apart bread upon baking. This fun and festive shape adds a delightful touch to your holiday table. Step 5: Create the Egg Wash In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and one tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture generously over the top of each dough ball using a pastry brush. This step will give your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread a lovely golden color and shine as it bakes. Step 6: Bake the Bread Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake your cheesy creation for 16 to 18 minutes. Keep an eye on the bread; it should emerge beautifully golden brown and puffed. The enticing aroma of melted cheese and freshly baked bread will surely fill your kitchen! Step 7: Add Flavor with Butter and Garlic Once the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is out of the oven, melt three tablespoons of butter in the microwave. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese and the minced garlic, mixing until well combined. Brush this savory mixture over the warm bread to enhance its flavor and provide a delicious buttery finish. Step 8: Final Touches and Serve Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese atop the bread as a finishing touch. You can serve your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm, alongside marinara or pesto sauce for dipping. Get ready to share this delightful appetizer with family and friends, as they won’t be able to resist pulling apart the cheesy goodness! Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Variations Feel free to get creative with your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread! These fun ideas will inspire you to personalize this delightful appetizer. Dairy-Free: Replace mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative for a plant-based version that everyone can enjoy. Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist that enhances the festive flavor. Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a bit of heat in their cheesy bites. Stuffed Delight: Explore with fillings like pepperoni, spinach dip, or even a sun-dried tomato pesto inside the dough for a fun surprise. Shape Variations: Transform the dough into festive wreaths or stars to match different holiday themes; creativity knows no bounds! Sweet Treat Twist: Create a dessert version using sweetened cream cheese, chocolate chips, and nuts for a holiday treat that surprises guests. Alternative Dough: Use a homemade dough or even bagels for a unique texture; simply shape it into the Christmas tree form. Garnished Goodness: Top with a sprinkle of Everything Bagel seasoning or sesame seeds before baking to add texture and flavor. As you whip up this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, don’t miss out on pairing it with a warm dipping sauce, like marinara or pesto—your guests will love every cheesy, savory bite! If you’re feeling extra generous, how about serving it alongside some warm Honey Butter Cornbread or Cheese Cloud Bread? Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Room Temperature: Once cooled, you can store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep it covered with foil or a clean kitchen towel to maintain freshness. Fridge: For longer storage, place the bread in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay good for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just pop it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its warmth and crispiness. Freezer: You can freeze the prepared dough balls (before baking) for up to 1 month. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Reheating: To reheat leftover baked Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, wrap it in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through without drying out. What to Serve with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread The aroma of melted cheese and freshly baked dough sets the perfect stage for a delightful holiday feast that warms the heart. Savory Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, this comforting soup complements the cheesy bread, offering a lovely balance of flavors. Dip each piece into the rich tomato goodness for a twist on tradition. Garlic Parmesan Wings: These crispy, flavorful wings bring a savory crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the gooey cheese. They’re a sure-fire hit at any gathering, elevating your spread to new heights. Herbed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a burst of freshness to counteract the richness of the bread. It’s the ideal palate cleanser between those gooey bites. Creamy Spinach Dip: This warm, cheesy dip pairs well with the festive flavors and texture of the bread. Serve it alongside as a delicious accompaniment, perfect for scooping. Baked Ziti: For a heartier option, this warm, cheesy pasta dish works wonderfully with the festive bread, creating a comforting meal that everyone will love. Pineapple Mimosa: The fruity zing of this refreshing drink balances the richness of the bread perfectly. It’s a festive addition to your holiday table, making your gathering extra special. Chocolate Fondue: For a sweet twist, follow up with a delightful chocolate fondue. The combination of warm, melted chocolate with fresh fruit or marshmallows brings a sweet finish to your holiday feast. Make Ahead Options Preparing your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread ahead of time saves you precious moments during the busy holiday season! You can assemble the dough balls and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and ready for baking. Simply wrap the tray tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just take them out, brush with the egg wash, and bake as directed. If you’re looking to prep even earlier, you can freeze the assembled dough balls for up to 3 months; when ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, each melty, cheesy bite will be just as delightful, bringing joy to your festive table with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Seal Properly: Ensure dough balls are tightly sealed to avoid cheese leakage during baking, allowing for that perfect pull-apart experience. Adjust Baking Time: If you’re using homemade or thicker dough, keep an eye on the baking time to achieve that lovely golden brown color. Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough balls a night before and refrigerate them; this can save time during busy holiday preparations! Egg Wash Tips: Brush the egg wash generously to ensure a beautiful, golden crust. If you’re short on eggs, milk makes for an excellent substitute. Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to play with flavors! Swapping in different cheeses or adding herbs can elevate your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread to new heights. Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs What type of pizza dough is best for this recipe? Absolutely! Canned refrigerated pizza dough is ideal as it provides a sturdy base for the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. If you prefer, you can also use homestyle dough or crescent roll dough as tasty alternatives. How should I store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread? Leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with foil or a clean kitchen towel to keep it fresh. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it lasts for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven for a few minutes revives its deliciousness! Can I freeze the dough for this recipe? Yes! You can prepare the dough balls ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, you can bake them directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. What should I do if the cheese leaks out while baking? To prevent cheese leakage, it’s important to seal the dough balls tightly around the cheese. If you find it happening, make sure you pinch the edges well to secure the filling inside. Adjusting the size of the dough squares can also help in making sure each ball is adequately sealed. Can I make this recipe nut-free or dairy-free? Absolutely! This recipe can be adjusted for dietary considerations. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant and ensure your pizza dough is free from nuts. For an exciting flavor boost, consider using alternative herbs or spices instead of cheese, which can add a different yet delightful taste! Is this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread suitable for pets? While the bread itself is delicious for humans, ingredients like cheese and garlic can be harmful to pets, particularly dogs. It’s best to keep this festive treat away from your furry friends to ensure their safety. Always opt for pet-friendly snacks when treating your beloved pets! Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: A Festive Appetizer Delight Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful pull-apart appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring gooey mozzarella and a festive design. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 18 minutes minsTotal Time 38 minutes mins Servings: 8 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Dough1 roll Canned Refrigerated Pizza Dough Homestyle or crescent roll dough can be used as a substitute.1 large Egg Mixed with 1 tbsp water for egg wash.1 tbsp Water For egg wash.For the Filling6-7 sticks Mozzarella Cheese Can substitute with mozzarella pearls or cubed cheddar.1 clove Grated Garlic Garlic powder can be substituted.For the Toppings3 tbsp Butter Melted; olive oil can be used as a lighter substitute.0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Divided; can use any hard cheese as a replacement.1 tbsp Fresh Parsley Chopped; dried parsley (1 tsp) can be used instead.0.5 tbsp Fresh Rosemary Chopped; Italian seasoning blend can be a good alternative.0.5 tbsp Fresh Basil Chopped; dried basil (1 tsp) can also work.For DippingMarinara/Pesto Sauce Any preferred sauce can serve as an alternative. Equipment Baking sheetParchment paperRolling Pinsmall bowlPastry brush Method Preparation StepsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.Lightly flour your countertop and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough until it's about ¼-inch thick. Cut the dough into 30 equal squares.Cut mozzarella cheese sticks into 1-inch pieces and place one piece in each dough square. Fold the dough around the cheese and seal tightly to form small balls.Arrange the sealed dough balls in the shape of a Christmas tree on the baking sheet.Whisk together one egg and one tablespoon of water for the egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top of each dough ball.Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the bread is golden brown.Melt butter and mix it with half of the grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic. Brush this mixture over the warm bread after baking.Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top and serve warm with marinara or pesto sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 8gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure dough balls are tightly sealed to avoid cheese leakage. You can make the dough balls ahead of time and refrigerate them. Milk can be used as a substitute for an egg wash if needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
