Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: 1 Magical Holiday Appetizer

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread has been the star of my holiday gatherings for years. I first saw this idea on a baking show and was mesmerized by the beautiful, edible tree. The first time I made it, the aroma of garlic and melted cheese filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dive in. This festive pull-apart cheesy bread is so much fun to make and even more fun to eat, creating those perfect cheese pulls. It’s truly the easiest Christmas tree bread appetizer you’ll find, guaranteed to bring smiles around the table. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

This festive treat is a guaranteed hit for so many reasons:

• Irresistible Taste: Warm, gooey cheese and savory garlic butter make this holiday tree shaped cheese bread utterly delicious.
• Quick Prep Time: With store-bought dough, you can have this appetizer ready in under an hour, perfect for busy hosts.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids adore helping to shape the dough balls and love the pull-apart nature of this cheesy Christmas tree bread.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple, common ingredients makes this a cost-effective way to impress your guests.
• Showstopper Design: This holiday tree shaped cheese bread is as beautiful as it is tasty, making it a centerpiece appetizer.
• Versatile Appetizer: It’s perfect for parties, family dinners, or just a fun weekend snack.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap cheeses or add herbs to make it your own.
• Pure Comfort Food: Nothing beats a warm, cheesy bite during the holiday season.

Ingredients for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful Christmas tree bread with cheese that’s sure to impress:

• 1 pound refrigerated pizza dough – Using store-bought makes shaping this festive pull-apart cheesy bread a breeze.
• 24 small cubes mozzarella cheese – This is the heart of our cheesy Christmas tree bread, providing that satisfying gooey pull.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Forms the base for our savory garlic butter topping.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a wonderful aroma and classic flavor to the bread.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For a touch of freshness and color, enhancing the overall appeal of the holiday tree shaped cheese bread.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty depth to the topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the cheese beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors in the garlic butter mixture.
• Marinara sauce for serving (optional) – Perfect for dipping this fun Christmas tree bread appetizer.

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Let’s get this festive appetizer ready! Follow these simple steps to create a beautiful and delicious Christmas tree bread with cheese that will wow your guests.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze for your holiday tree shaped cheese bread.
2. Step 2: Take your pound of refrigerated pizza dough and divide it into 24 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a small disc. Carefully wrap each disc around a cube of mozzarella cheese, pinching the edges tightly to seal. This is a crucial step in how to make cheesy Christmas tree bread so the cheese stays inside.
3. Step 3: Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Start from the bottom and work your way up, shaping them into a Christmas tree. You’ll want a wide base that tapers towards the top.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 2 cloves minced garlic, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. This fragrant mixture is key to the amazing flavor of your festive pull-apart cheesy bread.
5. Step 5: Generously brush this garlic butter mixture all over the dough balls. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the entire tree. This adds another layer of savory goodness to our Christmas tree bread with cheese.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and puffed up, and the cheese inside is wonderfully melted and gooey. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s almost ready!
8. Step 8: Once baked, carefully remove the cheesy Christmas tree bread from the oven. Let it cool for just a few minutes before serving.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired. This is the perfect way to complete the experience of how to make cheesy Christmas tree bread.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Want to elevate your holiday appetizer game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make this festive pull-apart cheesy bread absolutely perfect every time. These tips will ensure your bread is a showstopper!

• Ensure your pizza dough is at room temperature before you start. This makes it much easier to shape and wrap around the cheese cubes without tearing.
• Don’t overstuff the dough balls with cheese. Too much cheese can cause the dough to burst during baking, leading to a messy, less attractive tree.
• For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the butter mixture, or even some finely chopped rosemary.

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

The secret to the absolute best cheesy Christmas tree bread lies in the careful sealing of each cheese cube within the dough. This ensures maximum meltiness without leakage, creating those delightful cheese pulls everyone loves. For more insights on baking techniques, you can explore resources on baking fundamentals.

Can I make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this festive pull-apart cheesy bread up to 6 hours in advance. Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, cover them loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

A common pitfall is not sealing the dough balls tightly enough, leading to cheese escaping. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent even browning. Finally, don’t skip the resting time after baking; it allows the cheese to set slightly. For more tips on avoiding baking mishaps, check out our contact page for expert advice.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

This festive pull-apart bread shaped like a tree is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with other holiday favorites. For a classic pairing, serve it alongside a warm bowl of marinara sauce or a creamy pesto dip. The savory flavors complement the cheesy bread perfectly, making it an irresistible appetizer for any holiday party. You can also serve slices of this delightful Christmas tree bread with cheese as a fun side dish to your main holiday meal, perhaps alongside a roasted turkey or a festive ham. It’s a versatile addition to any celebration!

Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

This festive pull-apart cheesy bread is a delightful treat, and here’s a breakdown of its estimated nutritional content per serving. It’s a fun and flavorful addition to your holiday spread, perfect for parties and family gatherings. For more information on dietary guidelines, consult resources on data privacy and nutrition.

• Calories: 210 calories
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used for your homemade Christmas tree cheese bread.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

You’ve made a beautiful and delicious cheesy Christmas tree bread, and now you’re wondering about leftovers. Don’t worry, storing and reheating this festive pull-apart cheesy bread is super simple! Once your holiday tree shaped cheese bread has cooled completely, place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this easy cheesy holiday bread recipe is freezer-friendly! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, you have a couple of great options. For refrigerated bread, simply warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, unwrap it and bake at the same temperature for 15-20 minutes, or until warm and gooey again. Enjoy your delicious homemade Christmas tree cheese bread!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Can I add different kinds of cheese to my Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

Absolutely! While mozzarella provides that classic cheese pull, feel free to mix in other cheeses. Provolone, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Gruyère can add wonderful depth. Just make sure they melt well. This flexibility makes it a truly versatile savory Christmas tree bread. For more cheese pairing ideas, explore our latest recipes.

What dipping sauces go best with this bread?

Marinara is a classic for a reason, but don’t stop there! Consider a creamy garlic herb dip, a spicy ranch, or even a smooth pesto. The goal is to complement the cheesy, savory goodness of the bread. Experimenting with dips makes the experience of this festive pull-apart cheesy bread even more fun.

Is this appetizer suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is naturally vegetarian! It uses common ingredients like pizza dough, cheese, and seasonings, making it a safe and delicious option for most guests at your holiday party. It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits right into a vegetarian holiday menu. You can learn more about our commitment to quality ingredients on our privacy policy page.

How can I make my Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread look more like a decorated tree?

To add a decorative touch, try adding some thinly sliced black olives or small pieces of sun-dried tomatoes between the dough balls before baking. You could also brush on a little extra garlic butter after baking and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a festive “ornament” look. This adds visual appeal to your savory Christmas tree bread.

Variations of Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread You Can Try

This delightful Christmas tree shaped appetizer bread is incredibly versatile, and I love experimenting with different flavors and methods. Here are a few ideas to make your holiday bread even more special:

• Spicy Kick: Swap the mozzarella for pepper jack cheese or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a delightful heat.
• Herbaceous Delight: Incorporate finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the butter mixture, or even add some pesto as a dipping sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a store-bought gluten-free pizza dough or a homemade blend to make this a delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities. The cheese pull will still be amazing!
• Mini Trees: Instead of one large tree, make several smaller ones using mini mozzarella balls and individual dough portions. These are perfect for individual servings or as part of a larger appetizer spread.

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: 1 Magical Holiday Appetizer

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 47 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A festive pull-apart bread shaped like a Christmas tree, stuffed with gooey cheese and topped with garlic butter. This easy cheesy Christmas tree bread is perfect as a holiday appetizer or party snack.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound refrigerated pizza dough
• 24 small cubes mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Marinara sauce for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the pizza dough into 24 equal pieces. Flatten each piece and wrap around a cube of mozzarella cheese, pinching the edges to seal.
3. Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, and salt. Brush the mixture over the dough balls.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 20–22 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Notes

• You can mix in shredded cheddar cheese with the mozzarella.
• Olive oil can be used instead of butter.
• Garlic powder can be substituted for fresh garlic.
• Basil can be used instead of parsley.
• Crushed red pepper flakes can be added for a little heat.
• Ranch or pesto can be served for dipping instead of marinara.
• If you forget to pinch the balls closed, you will get cheese puddles, which some people enjoy.
• Store-bought dough is generally easier to shape than homemade.
• Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick.
• Add sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a more decorated tree appearance.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days and reheated.
• The bread can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 6 hours before baking.
• Other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or feta can be used.
• Doubling the recipe is possible with an additional baking sheet.
• Freezing is possible but may result in a drier texture.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210 calories
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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