The holiday season is upon us, and nothing sets the festive mood quite like the scent of warm, buttery bread wafting through the air. When I first made this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, I was amazed at how something so whimsical could be so easy. This delightful pull-apart bread, filled with gooey mozzarella and infused with aromatic garlic, is not only a charming centerpiece for your holiday table but also a hit with family and friends. With each pull, you'll discover a cheesy explosion that makes every gathering feel even more special.
Perfect as an appetizer or a fun side dish, this easy recipe will have everyone coming back for more, leaving you to bask in the glory of being the star of your holiday celebrations. So gather your loved ones and get ready to create a bread treat that brings joy and comfort to your festive gatherings!
Why is Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The perfect blend of buttery garlic and melty mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that delights every palate.
Festive Presentation: Shaped like a Christmas tree, it's not just tasty-it's a showstopper for your holiday table!
Easy to Make: With refrigerator pizza dough and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time, even if you're not a seasoned chef.
Pull-Apart Fun: Each bite effortlessly pulls apart, making sharing easy and enjoyable for gatherings with family and friends.
Versatile Additions: Feel free to mix things up with different cheeses or unique fillings like spinach and pepperoni for a twist on the classic.
Ideal for Dipping: Serve with marinara, pesto, or ranch dipping sauces to elevate this appetizer and keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
For the Dough
• Refrigerator Pizza Dough - Provides structure and serves as the base for the rolls; any type, including gluten-free, works well.For the Filling
• Mozzarella Cheese Sticks - The star of the show; cube or cut into 1-inch pieces for the best melting.
• Grated Garlic - Infuses the butter mixture with aromatic flavor; can be replaced with garlic powder in a pinch (1/4 teaspoon for one clove).For the Egg Wash
• Egg - Gives a beautiful golden brown finish; mix with water for the perfect sheen.
• Water - Helps dilute the egg for even application over the dough.For the Topping
• Butter (melted) - Adds richness and flavor; can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter touch.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese - Offers a savory, nutty kick; feel free to substitute with hard cheese like Pecorino Romano.
• Fresh Parsley, Rosemary, Basil - Lends vibrant color and fresh flavor; dried herbs can be used instead but in smaller amounts (1/3 of fresh).For Dipping
• Marinara or Pesto - Complements the bread beautifully; optional dips like ranch or pizza sauce also work great.
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread – easy recipe! is the perfect festive treat that will wow your guests this holiday season!
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Prepare the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerator pizza dough. Cut it into 30 equal squares, giving you plenty of room for the cheesy filling.
Add the cheese: Cut mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces. Place one piece of cheese right in the center of each dough square.
Shape into balls: Roll each square of dough into a ball, making sure to pinch the edges firmly to seal the cheese inside. This ensures a gooey center once baked!
Arrange the dough balls: Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree-let them touch slightly for that classic pull-apart effect.
Make the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the dough balls to achieve a shiny, golden finish when baked.
Bake the bread: Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and puffed up beautifully.
Prepare the herb butter: While the bread is baking, melt the butter in a small bowl and stir in half of the grated parmesan, garlic, and your choice of herbs for extra flavor.
Finish and serve: Once the bread is baked to perfection, brush the warm herb garlic butter over the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan. Serve it warm with marinara or pesto for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for a festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
• High-Quality Cheese: Use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best melting results and a deliciously gooey center in your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.
• Seal the Dough: Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough tightly to avoid any cheese leakage during baking. This keeps all that melty goodness inside!
• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can assemble the dough balls the night before. Just refrigerate them and brush with egg wash right before baking.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add finely chopped pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or other fun fillings inside the dough balls for a unique twist that adds even more deliciousness.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky while shaping, lightly flour your hands or the rolling surface to make handling easier and ensure a smooth finish.
• Serving Warm: For the best experience, enjoy your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread fresh out of the oven. Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain that lovely crispness.
What to Serve with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Warm, cheesy, and welcoming, this festive centerpiece pairs beautifully with a variety of delicious accompaniments to create a delightful holiday feast.
Creamy Tomato Soup: The rich flavor of tomato soup complements the cheesy bread, creating a satisfying dipping experience as the warmth soothes cold winter nights.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Fresh, roasted vegetables provide a vibrant contrast to the gooey cheese and buttery bread, offering both nutrition and color to your holiday spread.
Crisp Garden Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a zesty dressing balances the richness of the bread, adding a crunchy texture that enhances each bite.
Savory Meatballs: Serve sweet and tangy meatballs on the side for a heartier meal option, inviting guests to customize their bites for an indulgent experience.
Hot Mulled Cider: Complement the flavors of your cheesy creation with a warm mug of spiced apple cider, infusing a festive aroma that delights the senses during celebrations.
Chocolate Peppermint Bark: For dessert, offer chocolate peppermint bark to bring a sweet finish to your meal, leaving everyone with a taste of holiday cheer.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Room Temperature: Store leftovers in a covered dish for up to 2 days. Enjoy them warm to retain their soft texture.
Fridge: Place Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat to restore crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, freezing for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get that delightful gooeyness back!
Variations & Substitutions for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Customize your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with these delightful variations to tantalize your taste buds this holiday season!
- Cheddar Swap: Replace mozzarella with sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor that kids love.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices inside for a zesty twist that will have adventurous eaters reaching for more.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the cheese filling for a nutritious and colorful addition.
- Herb Infusion: Mix different fresh herbs like thyme or dill into the butter for a unique flavor profile; it's a fantastic way to brighten up the bread.
- Wreath Alternative: Instead of a Christmas tree, shape the dough balls into a festive wreath for a standout presentation on your table.
- Sweet Surprise: Consider adding a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar to the butter mix for a sweet version that pairs perfectly with a holiday brunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough to create a delicious holiday treat that accommodates dietary needs.
- Savory Cheese Blend: Mix in a combination of mozzarella and pepper jack cheese for an exciting flavor experience that adds depth to every bite.
Feel free to experiment and find your favorite twist on this cheerful holiday treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread rolls are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can easily prepare the dough balls up to 24 hours in advance by assembling them and placing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To ensure they stay fresh, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply brush them with the egg wash and bake until golden brown. This way, you'll enjoy the same delightful flavors and textures without the last-minute rush, making your holiday gatherings stress-free and incredibly delicious!
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of pizza dough should I use for the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
You can use any type of refrigerator pizza dough, including gluten-free varieties, but I recommend a classic white or whole wheat for the best flavor and texture.
How long can I store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Leftover bread can be stored in a covered dish at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat to bring back the lovely gooeyness!
Can I freeze the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled dough balls tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, pop them straight into the oven from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if the cheese leaks out during baking?
To prevent cheese leakage, ensure that the dough is firmly pinched around the edges when shaping the balls. If it does happen, don't fret! Just bake it until golden brown, and the bread will still be deliciously cheesy.
Can I add ingredients to the filling for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you have dietary restrictions, you can use low-fat cheese options or omit cheese altogether for a flavorful garlic-butter bread. You could also try adding chopped sautéed vegetables or herbs to the mix for a unique twist.
How can I refresh leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
To refresh, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the leftover bread on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. This will make sure the bread gets warm and crispy again, just like when it was fresh out of the oven!
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: The Easy, Irresistibly Festive Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerator pizza dough. Cut it into 30 equal squares.
- Cut mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces. Place one in the center of each dough square.
- Roll each square of dough into a ball, pinching edges to seal the cheese inside.
- Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over the dough balls.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.
- Melt the butter and stir in half of the grated parmesan, garlic, and herbs.
- Brush the warm herb garlic butter over the bread and sprinkle with remaining parmesan.
- Serve warm with marinara or pesto for dipping.
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