why make this recipe
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a festive and fun dish that brings the holiday spirit to your table. It’s easy to make and perfect for gatherings, parties, or just to enjoy at home. The cheesy, gooey filling and the fun Christmas tree shape make it an instant hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s a great way to include everyone in the cooking process!
how to make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent dough sheet)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Marinara or pizza sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until combined.
- Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into 32 equal squares.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of cheese filling in the center of each square.
- Fold each dough square around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
- Arrange the balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Optional: Sprinkle with parsley and parmesan before serving.
- Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
how to serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Serve the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm, right out of the oven. It’s great to share with friends and family, and pairs perfectly with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. Set it on the table during holiday gatherings, and watch it disappear!
how to store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them if you prefer a quicker option.
tips to make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- Allow the dough to come to room temperature before unrolling it; this helps prevent it from tearing.
- Use a cookie cutter or knife to create decorations on the tree shape for added fun!
variation
You can customize your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread by adding cooked bacon bits, chopped spinach, or other ingredients you enjoy. For a sweet version, try using chocolate or sweet cheese filling!
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated dough?
Yes, you can use your favorite homemade dough recipe. Just make sure it’s rolled out to the correct thickness.
2. Can I freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the formed, uncooked balls. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What other dips can I use instead of marinara?
You can try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a cheeseburger sauce for dipping instead of marinara.
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive, cheesy treat shaped like a Christmas tree, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent dough sheet)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Marinara or pizza sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until combined.
- Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into 32 equal squares.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of cheese filling in the center of each square.
- Fold each dough square around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
- Arrange the balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Optional: Sprinkle with parsley and parmesan before serving.
- Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened. Experiment with different cheeses for varying flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Christmas recipe, holiday baking, cheesy bread