Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful and festive treat that brings joy to any holiday gathering. This recipe features soft, fluffy dough filled with gooey mozzarella, shaped into a charming Christmas tree, and brushed with garlic herbs. It’s perfect for sharing during the holiday season!
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
Making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and creative way to celebrate the holidays. It’s simple to prepare and looks impressive on the table. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a cozy snack, this bread is sure to be a hit with friends and family. Plus, it’s delicious when dipped in marinara or pesto!
How to make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients:
- 13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough
- Parchment paper (for lining baking sheet)
- 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 jar marinara and/or pesto (for dipping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the pizza dough into about 30 equal squares. Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces (1 inch).
- Place a piece of mozzarella into each square of dough, then roll each square into a ball, sealing the edges.
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a tree, making sure they are touching.
- In a small bowl, blend the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture over each dough ball.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
- While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave. Mix in half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and chopped herbs.
- Once the bread is done, brush the mixture over the rolls and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top. Serve right away with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
A festive treat featuring soft, fluffy dough filled with gooey mozzarella, shaped into a Christmas tree, and brushed with garlic herbs. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough
- Parchment paper (for lining baking sheet)
- 6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 jar marinara and/or pesto (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the pizza dough into about 30 equal squares. Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces (1 inch).
- Place a piece of mozzarella into each square of dough, then roll each square into a ball, sealing the edges.
- Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a tree, making sure they are touching.
- In a small bowl, blend the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture over each dough ball.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
- While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave. Mix in half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and chopped herbs.
- Once the bread is done, brush the mixture over the rolls and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top. Serve right away with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
Notes
Serve warm for the best experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
How to serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is best served warm out of the oven. Arrange it on a festive platter and place dips like marinara or pesto alongside. Guests can pull apart the rolls and enjoy the gooey cheese inside!
How to store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
To store any leftovers, keep the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
- Use a pizza dough that you enjoy; homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Experiment with different cheeses; cheddar or pepper jack can add a fun twist.
- If you like more flavor, add some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the herb mixture.
Variations
You can customize this recipe by adding other ingredients, such as diced pepperoni or cooked sausage inside the dough balls for a heartier version.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll love this Christmas Tree Focaccia.
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough balls and place them on the baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
2. Can I use frozen dough?
Yes, frozen pizza dough can be used. Just thaw it according to package instructions before shaping.
3. What dips go well with this bread?
Marinara and pesto are popular choices, but cheese sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter also make great dipping options.
Conclusion
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is not only easy to make but also brings a fun and festive spirit to any holiday gathering. With its cheesy filling and delicious herb butter topping, it’s a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. Try making this eye-catching treat, and enjoy the cheerful spirit it brings!
For more easy and satisfying recipes, join me on Pinterest – where good food meets great company!
