Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the perfect festive treat for your holiday gatherings. It’s not only delicious but also a fun and creative way to present bread. This recipe brings a cozy and cheerful atmosphere to your table and makes for an excellent appetizer or snack. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests!
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients
- 13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough
- Parchment paper (for lining baking sheet)
- 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 jar marinara and/or pesto (for dipping)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400° and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the dough into approximately 30 equal squares. Then, cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized (1 inch) pieces.
- Add a piece of mozzarella to each square of dough and form a ball by rolling it with your hands to smooth and seal the edges.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet seam side down, arranging them in the shape of a tree so the balls are touching (see photos).
- In a small bowl, blend the egg and water, then lightly brush each ball with the egg wash.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the bread is baking, microwave the butter until melted. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese and all of the grated garlic and herbs.
- Brush the mixture onto the rolls, then sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve right away with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
You can serve this cheesy bread warm or at room temperature. It’s great for sharing at holiday parties or family gatherings. Just set out your bowl of marinara or pesto for dipping, and watch everyone enjoy this tasty treat!
How to Store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350° for a few minutes until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
- Make sure the dough is well-sealed around the cheese to prevent it from leaking out while baking.
- Experiment with different herbs or cheese types for added flavor.
- Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if you prefer a less intense garlic flavor.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding different fillings inside the dough balls. For example, consider adding cooked spinach, pepperoni, or even shredded chicken to create your own variation of this festive bread!
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of canned?
Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough if you prefer. Just ensure it’s rolled out to a similar thickness.
Can I freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Assemble the bread and place it in the freezer, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What dips can I serve with it?
Besides marinara and pesto, you can serve it with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a cheese dip for extra fun!
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
A festive and creative cheesy bread shaped like a Christmas tree, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough
- Parchment paper (for lining baking sheet)
- 6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil (finely chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (grated)
- 1 jar marinara and/or pesto (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the dough into approximately 30 equal squares. Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces.
- Add a piece of mozzarella to each square of dough and form a ball by rolling it to smooth and seal the edges.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet seam side down, arranging them in the shape of a tree.
- In a small bowl, blend the egg and water, then lightly brush each ball with the egg wash.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until golden brown.
- While baking, microwave the butter until melted. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese and all of the grated garlic and herbs.
- Brush the mixture onto the rolls, then sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve warm with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cheese bread, holiday appetizer, Christmas recipes, festive bread