Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

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.

See also  Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Bombs Recipe

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.

See also  Crack Breakfast Casserole

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!

Leave a Comment