Celebrate the holidays with this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, a festive and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings. Made with fluffy dough balls stuffed with gooey cheese, arranged in a Christmas tree shape, and topped with garlic butter, herbs, and cheese, this pull-apart bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce for a holiday treat that’s both fun and flavorful.
Ingredients
the Dough:
- Pizza dough (store-bought or homemade): 1 pound
- Mozzarella cheese (cubed): 8 ounces
- All-purpose flour (for dusting): As needed
Garlic Butter:
- Unsalted butter (melted): 4 tablespoons
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Fresh parsley (chopped): 1 tablespoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
Topping:
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons
- Italian seasoning or dried herbs: 1 teaspoon
Serving:
- Marinara sauce: 1 cup (for dipping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle. Cut it into 24 equal squares.
Step 2: Assemble the Bread
Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square. Pinch the edges together to seal and roll into a ball.
Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting with one ball at the top and working down in rows to create the tree shape. Leave a small space between each ball to allow for expansion while baking.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
Brush the garlic butter generously over the dough balls.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the tree with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Seal the Dough Properly: Ensure the dough is tightly sealed around the cheese to prevent leaks during baking.
Customize the Cheese: Try stuffing the dough with other cheeses like cheddar, brie, or fontina for a variety of flavors.
Herb Variation: Swap parsley for basil, rosemary, or thyme to complement your favorite herbs.
Make Ahead: Assemble the bread in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving.
Calories Per Serving
This recipe makes approximately 24 dough balls. Per serving (1 dough ball):
- Dough: ~60 calories
- Cheese: ~40 calories
- Butter and toppings: ~20 calories
Total per piece: ~120 calories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Festive Presentation: The Christmas tree shape is perfect for holiday gatherings.
Cheesy and Flavorful: Each bite is bursting with gooey cheese and topped with savory garlic butter.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make it beginner-friendly.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
Delicious Variations
Spicy Version: Add a slice of jalapeño or a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese filling.
Sweet Option: Stuff with cream cheese and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a dessert version.
Pesto Bread: Brush with pesto instead of garlic butter for an herby twist.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and festive way to bring holiday cheer to your table. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, it’s a recipe that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious. Gather your loved ones and enjoy pulling apart this cheesy masterpiece!