There is something absolutely magical about a Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe that brings festive cheer to any gathering. This pull-apart bread shaped like a Christmas tree is not only stunning to look at but also packed with ooey-gooey mozzarella cheese inside each tender dough ball. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines buttery garlic herbs and Parmesan into a beautifully baked centerpiece that everyone will want to dig into again and again. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or craving a fun seasonal snack, this recipe offers the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and whimsy to make your celebration extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with ingredients that you might already have on hand or can easily find at any grocery store. Each component plays a vital role from the fluffy pizza dough forming the base to the fresh herbs and garlic elevating the flavor, while mozzarella delivers that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Pizza dough (1 can, 13 oz): The soft and stretchable foundation that puffs up beautifully when baked.
- Mozzarella sticks (6–7): Provides melty pockets of cheesy goodness inside every bread ball.
- Egg and water (1 large egg + 1 tbsp water): Used for an egg wash that gives the bread a shiny, golden crust.
- Butter (3 tbsp, melted): Adds a rich, luxurious flavor in the garlic herb topping.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, divided): Sprinkled inside and over the bread for a sharp, nutty accent.
- Fresh parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): Offers a fresh, mild herbal note to brighten the dish.
- Fresh rosemary (1/2 tbsp, chopped): Gives an earthy, pine-like aroma perfect for the holidays.
- Fresh basil (1/2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a subtle sweet and peppery hint to complement the garlic.
- Garlic (1 clove, grated): Infuses the butter with savory warmth without overpowering the flavors.
- Marinara and/or pesto (for dipping): Perfect finishing touch to dunk each cheesy bite into.
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when your bread is assembled. Preparing your baking sheet with parchment paper ensures a non-stick surface for easy removal and cleanup, helping your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe come out perfectly every time.
Step 2: Cut Dough and Cheese
Roll out your pizza dough and divide it into 30 equal squares. This size allows for perfect bite-sized bread balls. Then, slice the mozzarella sticks into 1-inch pieces so each dough square gets a generous cheesy center that melts to gooey perfection as it bakes.
Step 3: Assemble Bread Balls
Place one mozzarella piece in the middle of each dough square. Gently fold the dough around the cheese, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Then roll each into a smooth ball with the seam side down. This ensures the cheese stays inside during baking and every pull-apart piece is a cheesy surprise.
Step 4: Shape the Christmas Tree
Arrange all dough balls on the parchment-lined baking sheet in a Christmas tree shape. Position them close together so when they bake, the dough balls stick to each other, creating an easy-to-pull-apart bread tree that looks festive and inviting.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash and Bake
Whisk the egg and water to prepare an egg wash, then lightly brush it over the tops of each dough ball. This step is key to achieving a shiny, golden crust that makes your bread look as delicious as it tastes. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the tree is beautifully browned and inviting.
Step 6: Prepare Garlic Herb Butter Topping
While baking, melt butter and mix in half of the Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, and chopped herbs—parsley, rosemary, and basil. This flavorful topping adds a warm, aromatic finish to your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe that’s impossible to resist.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once out of the oven, brush your cheesy bread tree generously with the garlic herb butter mixture. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and festive appeal. Serve warm with marinara sauce and pesto on the side for dipping and watch everyone fall in love bite after bite.
How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the festive look by scattering a few fresh herb sprigs around the bread or sprinkling some extra chopped parsley on top. You can even add tiny cherry tomato “ornaments” in the crevices to bring the Christmas tree concept to life visually and add a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with light salad greens tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette or a warm bowl of tomato soup which complements the cheesy, garlicky flavors. It also makes a great side with roasted vegetables or your holiday charcuterie spread, offering balance and richness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, serve the bread tree on a rustic wooden board decorated with festive napkins and holiday-themed picks. You could also place a small candle in the “star” space on the tree or create a dipping station with various sauces to turn serving into a fun, interactive experience for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps it soft without drying out the dough or cheese.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked dough balls arranged on the baking sheet after shaping. Cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. When ready, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and the crust regains some crispness. Avoid microwaving for best texture; the oven method preserves the bread’s fresh-baked allure and molten cheese center.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives the perfect melt and stretch, you can experiment with cheddar or a cheese blend for different flavors. Just be mindful that some cheeses melt differently and may affect the texture slightly.
Can I make this bread recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with a vegan cheese alternative and use dairy-free butter for the garlic herb topping. Be sure to check that your dough doesn’t contain dairy as well for a fully vegan version.
Is it possible to prepare the dough balls ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the dough balls and refrigerate them, covered, for a few hours before baking. This makes it convenient to prepare the bread just before your gathering.
How can I make sure the cheese doesn’t leak out during baking?
Sealing the dough squares very securely around the cheese is essential. Pinch the edges firmly and roll the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet to minimize any cheese leaks.
What dipping sauces go well with this bread?
Classic marinara and pesto sauces are favorites because they complement the garlic and herb flavors beautifully, but you can also try ranch dip, garlic butter sauce, or even a sun-dried tomato spread for exciting variations.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe is truly a festive showstopper that’s fun to make and even more delightful to eat. Its combination of fluffy dough, melty cheese, and fragrant garlic herbs makes it a guaranteed hit for holiday gatherings or cozy winter nights. Don’t wait to try it yourself—it’s the perfect way to add warmth and joy to your celebrations while impressing friends and family with something truly special.
