Name: Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: A Festive Delight for Any Gathering
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 can Canned Refrigerator Pizza Dough (Homemade dough can be used for personal touch.); 1 large Egg (For egg wash; can substitute with milk.); 6-7 sticks Mozzarella Cheese (Can substitute with cheese pearls or cheddar.); 3 tablespoons Butter (Melted for richness.); 1 clove Grated Garlic (Can use garlic powder (1/4 tsp) if necessary.); 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Divided for topping.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Finely chopped.); 0.5 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (Finely chopped; can omit if desired.); 0.5 tablespoon Fresh Basil (Finely chopped.); 1 cup Marinara/Pesto Sauce (For dipping.)

As I strolled through the twinkling lights of a winter market, the warm, buttery scent of roasted garlic and cheese wafted through the air, wrapping me in a cozy embrace. It was there that I was inspired to recreate that feeling with my Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. This festive pull-apart appetizer is not just a treat for the taste buds—it’s a fun and interactive experience for everyone at the table! With quick prep time and the delightful ability to gather friends and family around for some gooey goodness, you can elevate any holiday gathering. Imagine pulling apart soft, tender bread to reveal layers of melty mozzarella just waiting to stretch with every bite. What festive flavors will you add to your holiday table this season?

Why Is This Bread a Must-Make?

Simplicity at its Core: Making this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a breeze, so you can impress guests without the stress of complicated techniques.

Mouthwatering Melty Goodness: The combination of garlic and lush mozzarella creates an irresistible filling that will have everyone coming back for more.

Festive Presentation: Its whimsical tree shape offers an eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday spread, making it the perfect complement to any feast.

Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to switch out cheeses or add your favorite herbs to create a custom flavor profile. You could even pair it with an easy side like Baked Brussels Sprouts for an extra flavor punch!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s not just an appetizer; it’s an interactive experience, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy together.

Quick to Prepare: With just a few minutes of prep and a short bake time, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time!

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Ingredients

This delightful recipe is filled with gooey mozzarella and is perfect for holiday gatherings!

For the Dough

Canned Refrigerator Pizza Dough – Provides the structure for your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread; you can use homemade dough for a personal touch.
Large Egg – Used for the egg wash to give your bread a golden finish; you can substitute with milk if needed.

For the Filling

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks (6-7) – These add the melty goodness everyone loves; feel free to swap with cheese pearls or cheddar cubes for variety.
Butter (3 tablespoons, melted) – Enhances richness and flavor; don’t skip this for that delicious buttery taste.
Grated Garlic (1 clove) – Adds depth to the flavor; you can use garlic powder in a pinch (1/4 teaspoon).

For Seasoning and Topping

Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, divided) – Boosts the cheesy flavor on top; sprinkle generously!
Fresh Parsley (1 tablespoon, finely chopped) – Adds a pop of freshness to the bread; any fresh herb will do!
Fresh Rosemary (½ tablespoon, finely chopped) – Enhances aroma and flavor; consider omitting if you prefer a milder taste.
Fresh Basil (½ tablespoon, finely chopped) – Offers a sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the other herbs nicely.

For Serving

Marinara/Pesto Sauce (for dipping) – A delicious accompaniment to enhance the flavor of your cheesy bread; try both for fun variety!

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 it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread doesn’t stick. This will create a perfect base for your festive bread to bake on, allowing for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the canned refrigerator pizza dough until it’s smooth. Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into approximately 30 equal squares, about 2 inches on each side. Make sure the squares are uniform so they bake evenly and create a beautiful shape when assembled.

Step 3: Slice the Cheese
Next, take your mozzarella cheese sticks and slice them into roughly 30 pieces, each about 1 inch long. This size is perfect for stuffing inside the dough squares and will melt beautifully during baking, creating that gooey, cheesy center that everyone loves in your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.

Step 4: Assemble the Dough Balls
Now it’s time to create those delightful dough balls! Place a piece of mozzarella in the center of each square and fold the dough over, sealing the edges tightly. Roll each square into a ball shape, pinching the seams to keep the cheese from escaping. This step is crucial for ensuring your cheese stays inside as it bakes.

Step 5: Shape the Christmas Tree
Carefully arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, placing them close together to form a Christmas tree shape. Start with a wide base and taper as you go up, allowing the dough balls to touch. This touch will help them rise and meld into a beautiful tree shape as they bake in the oven.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and water in a small bowl to create your egg wash. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the tops of the dough balls with the wash to give your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread a beautiful golden finish as it bakes. This will enhance the color and add a lovely shine.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the dough has risen. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time, as visual cues of golden-brown perfection will let you know when your bread is ready.

Step 8: Prepare the Herb Garlic Butter
While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave until it’s fully liquefied. Stir in half of the grated Parmesan, finely chopped garlic, parsley, rosemary, and basil. This herb garlic butter will infuse your finished Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with rich flavors that elevate the entire dish.

Step 9: Finish and Garnish
Once your bread is out of the oven and beautifully golden, brush the warm herb garlic butter generously over the top. Make sure to cover all the dough balls for maximum flavor. Then, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top, adding an extra layer of cheesy goodness to your festive masterpiece.

Step 10: Serve Immediately
For the final touch, serve your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread immediately while it’s warm. Don’t forget to provide marinara or pesto sauce on the side for dipping! The delightful combination of melty cheese and herby flavors will surely be a hit at your holiday gathering.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Room Temperature: Store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps it soft and flavorful for a short time.

Fridge: If you need to store it longer, place the bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its gooey texture.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the assembled dough balls tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking for a fresh, warm treat.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps crisp up the exterior while melting the cheese inside.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Cheese Size Matters: Ensure mozzarella pieces are about 1 inch long to guarantee they melt perfectly without getting lost in the dough.
Keep Dough Chilled: If using prepped dough balls, refrigerate or freeze them for later baking. Just remember to thaw before placing in the oven!
Homemade Dough Tips: If you choose to make your own pizza dough, make sure it’s well-proofed for optimal fluffiness and texture in your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.
Golden Finish: Brush the dough balls thoroughly with egg wash for that eye-catching golden crust. It adds appeal and a lovely sheen to your bread.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs to personalize your flavor profile; fresh dill or thyme can add unique tastes and aromas!
Baking Vigilance: Keep an eye on your bread in the last few minutes of baking. Visual cues will ensure you achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

What to Serve with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the festive, cheesy allure of this pull-apart bread.

Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup provides a comforting dip that balances the cheesy richness while adding a hit of acidity.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter echo the flavors in the bread, creating a delightful seafood pairing that feels fancy yet fun.
Winter Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and a citrus vinaigrette adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy bread.
Herbed Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary and garlic provide a hearty, savory side that complements the bread’s buttery goodness.
Glazed Carrots: Sweet, glazed carrots bring vibrancy to your plate, offering a touch of sweetness that balances the salty, melty cheese.
Sparkling Cranberry Punch: This festive drink’s tartness plays beautifully with the savory flavors, making sipping an experience of its own at your gathering.
Chocolate Fondue: For a sweet ending, serve mini marshmallows or fruit for dipping, creating a fun dessert that ties in the fun, interactive theme of the meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread delights are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough balls and assemble your festive tree up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled dough balls for up to 2 months—just remember to thaw them completely in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to serve, brush with the egg wash and bake as directed for freshly baked, gooey goodness. This makes holiday entertaining easier, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with your loved ones while still presenting a show-stopping appetizer!

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with these fun and tasty variations!

Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for a different melt and flavor profile. The spicy kick of pepper jack can elevate it to new festive heights!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill to introduce unique aromas. Each herb brings its essence, making every batch a delightful surprise.
Wreath Shape: Consider shaping the dough into a festive wreath rather than a tree. Your guests will love the new presentation, offering a fun twist to holiday traditions.
Packed with Veggies: Add finely chopped spinach or roasted bell peppers inside for a nutritious twist. Not only do they boost flavor, but they also sneak in extra veggies for health-conscious friends.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese filling for a delightful heat. A little zest goes a long way in making your holiday dish memorable.
Dipping Delights: Instead of marinara, serve with warm spinach dip or creamy herb-infused cheese. You can even pair it with a tangy pesto to satisfy varied taste buds.
Frozen Prep: Prepare and freeze dough balls ahead of time for easy entertaining. Just thaw and bake them from frozen when the party starts—guests will think you’re a kitchen wizard!
Sweet Finish: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap garlic and herbs for a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, creating a dessert-style bread. Serve it warm with a drizzle of icing for an unexpected treat.

For extra flavor, serve your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread alongside warm Baked Brussels Sprouts or another festive side! These variations are bound to impress and make your holiday gathering even more special. Enjoy!

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of pizza dough should I use for the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
You can use canned refrigerator pizza dough for convenience, but feel free to use homemade pizza dough for a personal touch. Just ensure your homemade dough is well-proofed for the best texture and rise.

How should I store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Leftovers are best stored at room temperature in a covered container for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the oven to regain that lovely gooey texture.

Can I freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze prepped dough balls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before following the baking instructions.

What if the mozzarella cheese leaks out during baking?
To prevent leaks, make sure the cheese pieces are no larger than 1 inch, and seal the edges of the dough balls tightly. If you’re still concerned, you can also try mixing in some grated cheese with the mozzarella inside for added insurance!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains dairy (cheese and egg). For a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based cheese alternatives and substitute the egg wash with a mixture of almond milk and a bit of oil to achieve a golden color. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens.

How long does it take to bake the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread will bake for about 16-18 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until it reaches a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary based on your oven, and look for that eye-catching golden color!