Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Cheesy Christmas tree bread brings together gooey cheese and buttery herbed bread in a festive pull-apart shape This is my favorite edible centerpiece for holiday gatherings and it has never failed to wow both kids and adults with its combination of flavor and fun

This playful bread came together one snowy December when I wanted something easy but festive Since then my nieces insist we bake it every Christmas Eve

Gather Your Ingredients

• Canned refrigerator pizza dough: for easy shortcut and reliable texture Look for dough with a springy elastic feel for best results
• Mozzarella cheese sticks: classic melty cheese with mild flavor Use freshly packed sticks for better melting and flavor
• Large egg: gives the bread a shiny golden finish when brushed as a wash
• Butter: binds the topping and gives rich flavor Go for unsalted to control the salt level
• Grated parmesan cheese: adds sharpness and savory bite Use real Parmigiano Reggiano if you can
• Fresh parsley: brings freshness and color Choose vibrant green leaves
• Fresh rosemary: infuses piney aroma and depth Pick fragrant sprigs with soft needles
• Fresh basil: delivers sweet and peppery notes Only use tender bright leaves
• Garlic: grated for maximum punch and aromatic warmth
• Marinara or pesto dipping sauce: offers easy serving and holiday color Use your favorite jarred or homemade version

How to Make It

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees This ensures a hot environment for fast even baking Line your sheet pan with parchment paper to keep cleanup simple and prevent sticking

Shape the Dough Balls:

Cut your pizza dough into about thirty pieces Try to keep the pieces uniform so the bread bakes evenly Then slice each mozzarella stick into one-inch pieces to match the dough count

Stuff and Shape:

Working with one square at a time place a piece of cheese in the center Pull the dough edges up and around the cheese then roll in your hands to completely seal the cheese inside If you leave gaps cheese can leak out while baking

Arrange the Tree:

With the dough balls seam side down start positioning them on your pan Touch the balls together forming a tree shape with a trunk and little branches For a classic look use a triangle for the tree and three balls at the base for the trunk

Apply Egg Wash:

Whisk your egg with a tablespoon of water Using a pastry brush sweep a light coat of egg wash over every dough ball The egg wash guarantees a shiny golden brown finish during baking

Bake Until Golden:

Slide the pan onto the center rack Bake for sixteen to eighteen minutes Watch closely near the end The bread is done when every ball is deeply golden and sounds a little hollow when tapped

Add Herb Garlic Butter and Parmesan:

Microwave your butter until just melted Stir in half the parmesan all the chopped herbs and grated garlic Brush this fragrant mixture liberally across the tops as soon as the bread comes from the oven Dust over the rest of the parmesan for extra flavor and texture

Serve with Dip:

Transfer your cheesy tree to a serving board if you like Serve it right away while warm and fluffy with bowls of marinara or pesto

My personal favorite is the buttery golden tip of the tree When my family gathers for Christmas brunch there is a friendly competition to grab the meltiest center pieces

Flavor Boosters

You can swap in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or provolone for mozzarella If you love a kick add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper to the herb butter A ready made pizza crust sheet works in a pinch but fresh dough bakes up fluffier

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an appetizer with a colorful sauce tray For bigger parties set out alongside a simple green salad and holiday ham Or make mini bread trees for individual starters at a sit down holiday meal

Creative Twists

Bread shaped into trees and wreaths dates back to European celebration bread traditions Using pizza dough and cheese gives this version an Italian twist During the winter holidays the scent of baking bread and herbs always fills our house with cheer Spring variation Swap the herbs for chives and dill or try a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra brightness

Any leftover bread makes amazing grilled cheese or stuffing croutons for winter soups You will want to save a few pieces for the next day

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute homemade pizza dough for canned. Allow the dough to rise fully before assembling for best texture.

→ What type of cheese works best for the filling?

Mozzarella cheese sticks are recommended. Low-moisture mozzarella works best to keep the bread from getting soggy.

→ How do I prevent the dough balls from opening during baking?

Ensure you pinch and seal the dough well around the cheese. Place the seam side down on the baking sheet to help them stay closed.

→ Can I make this bread ahead of time?

You can assemble the dough balls earlier in the day and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

→ What sauces pair well for dipping?

Classic marinara and basil pesto are great choices, offering both tangy and herbaceous flavors to complement the cheesy bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Warm them in the oven to restore the bread's texture.