There’s something undeniably magical about the holidays, especially when it comes to food. Enter the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: a delightful, festive treat that not only brings a wow factor to your holiday table but also fills the room with mouthwatering aromas. This eye-catching bread, shaped like a Christmas tree, is perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or even as a fun family cooking project. Imagine breaking bread, literally, in a gooey, cheesy explosion—this recipe is bound to create lasting memories.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re looking for a holiday dish that merges fun with flavor, Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is your answer. It’s quick to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities. Plus, who can resist the combination of stretchy mozzarella and warmly baked dough? This dish is also incredibly versatile; it makes for an ideal appetizer, a brunch centerpiece, or even a comforting side during a holiday feast.
"I made this for our family Christmas gathering, and it was the star of the night! Everyone loved pulling off their own cheesy bites, and the dipping sauces were perfect!" – A happy home cook.
The cooking process explained
Making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is as fun as it sounds. This recipe is broken down into simple steps that guide you through the process, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve delightful results. With a preparation time that’s under 30 minutes, you’ll have an impressive, freshly baked bread in no time. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on this holiday masterpiece!
What you’ll need
To make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
- 13 ounces refrigerated pizza dough (canned)
- Parchment paper (for lining your baking sheet)
- 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- ½ tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- Marinara or pesto sauce (for dipping)
Feel free to substitute the cheeses with your favorites or try using garlic-infused oil instead of butter for a different flavor profile!
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the pizza dough into approximately 30 equal squares.
- Slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces.
- Place a piece of mozzarella into each square of dough, rolling it into a ball and sealing the edges well.
- Arrange the dough balls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet, forming a Christmas tree shape with the rolls touching each other.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush each dough ball with the egg wash.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
- While the bread bakes, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and chopped herbs.
- Once the bread is baked, brush the buttery herb mixture over the rolls and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
Best ways to enjoy it
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is not just tasty; it’s also visually stunning! To serve, place the tree on a festive platter, garnished with extra herbs or even some colorful cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Pair it with marinara sauce for a classic flavor or pesto for a fresh twist. This delightful bread is perfect for sharing, so encourage your guests to pluck a piece or two and enjoy the cheesy, melty goodness straight from the tree.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have any leftovers (though they’re unlikely), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to become gooey again. If you want to enjoy this dish later, it freezes well too. Just make sure to separate the rolls using parchment paper before freezing them in a zip-top bag. They can be baked directly from frozen!
Helpful cooking tips
- Choose high-quality mozzarella cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
- If you want to add more flavor, you can mix in sautéed onions or cooked spinach into the cheese before sealing the dough.
- For added crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds or everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
- Experiment with different herbs based on your preference; thyme or oregano could also complement the flavors beautifully.
Creative twists
While the classic flavors are always a hit, consider these fun variations to reinvigorate the dish:
- Add pepperoni slices or cooked sausage pieces inside for an Italian twist.
- Use garlic bread dough instead of pizza dough for a buttery, garlicky flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda, to create a unique blend.
- For a vegetarian version, swap out marinara for a homemade sun-dried tomato spread.
Common questions
How long does the dough need to rise?
This recipe uses refrigerated pizza dough, which doesn’t require rising time. Just roll it out and get to forming those cute little balls!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough balls and assemble the tree the day before. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
What if I don’t have all the herbs?
No problem! Feel free to use dried herbs if you don’t have fresh ones on hand. Just use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
With Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, you have a delightful, crowd-pleasing snack that’s simple enough to make and sophisticated enough to impress during the festive season. Enjoy the cheesy magic while it lasts!
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese Filling
- 13 ounces refrigerated pizza dough (canned)
- 6-7 pieces mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Herbs and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- ½ tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
Dipping Sauce
- 1 serving Marinara or pesto sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the pizza dough into approximately 30 equal squares.
- Slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces.
- Place a piece of mozzarella into each square of dough, rolling it into a ball and sealing the edges well.
- Arrange the dough balls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet, forming a Christmas tree shape with the rolls touching each other.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Lightly brush each dough ball with the egg wash.
Baking
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
- While the bread bakes, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and chopped herbs.
- Once the bread is baked, brush the buttery herb mixture over the rolls and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.