why make this recipe

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful and festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings. This recipe is not only visually appealing but also brings a delicious cheesy flavor that everyone loves. It’s a fun way to celebrate the season, and it’s easy to make with friends and family. Plus, the warm, gooey cheese makes it a satisfying snack, and it pairs perfectly with marinara for dipping.

how to make Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Ingredients :

3 cups bread flour
1 tsp instant dry yeast
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 tsp kosher salt
1 cup milk or water
2 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
8½ oz mozzarella cheese, cubed (or approx 8 string cheese sticks)
1 egg
1 tbsp water
¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
½ cup grated parmesan
red pepper flakes (optional)
marinara (for dipping)

Directions :

Combine all the dough ingredients except for the butter. Mix until no more dry flour is visible. Cover and let dough rest for 10 minutes in the softened butter.
Knead with a stand mixer or by hand for 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth and passes the windowpane test.
Cover and let rise for 1-1½ hours until the dough doubles in size.
Meanwhile, cut the cheese into 30-33 pieces, each weighing approximately 7 grams.
Punch down the dough. Divide it into balls weighing about 19-20 grams each. Cover and allow the dough to relax for 10 minutes.
Insert cheese into each dough ball, then lay them out on parchment paper on a baking sheet in a Christmas tree design. Leave space between the balls to allow the dough to expand. Cover and let proof for 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 425ºF (218ºC).
To check if the dough is ready to bake, perform a finger poke test. Poke the dough gently. If the indent springs back quickly, let it proof a little longer. If it stays and slowly retracts, it’s ready to bake.
Mix the egg and water in a small ramekin. Apply egg wash to each dough ball.
Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.
Combine chopped herbs with melted butter. Brush the butter mixture on the dough, then sprinkle with grated cheese and red pepper flakes.
Warm marinara in a small serving bowl for dipping.

how to serve Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Serve this bread warm straight out of the oven for the best cheesy experience. Arrange the bread on a festive platter, and don’t forget to include the marinara sauce for dipping. It makes a fun appetizer or snack for holiday parties!

how to store Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

To store leftover bread, let it cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Make sure your dough is kneaded well to develop gluten, which helps create a fluffy texture.
Let the dough rise in a warm place for best results.
Experiment with different cheeses or add herbs directly into the dough for an extra flavor kick.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

variation

For a twist on this recipe, try adding cooked and crumbled bacon or cooked spinach to the cheese filling for a savory surprise. You can also use different types of cheese, like cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, and then refrigerate it. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping the bread.

Is there a gluten-free version?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bread flour or a gluten-free all-purpose mix, and follow the same process.

Can I use other herbs?
Yes! Feel free to use any of your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

This festive and cheesy pull-apart bread will surely become a favorite for your holiday celebrations!

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Print Recipe

A delightful and festive cheesy bread shaped like a Christmas tree, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Combine all the dough ingredients except for the butter. Mix until no more dry flour is visible. Cover and let dough rest for 10 minutes in the softened butter.
Knead with a stand mixer or by hand for 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth and passes the windowpane test.
Cover and let rise for 1-1½ hours until the dough doubles in size.
Meanwhile, cut the cheese into 30-33 pieces, each weighing approximately 7 grams.
Punch down the dough. Divide it into balls weighing about 19-20 grams each. Cover and allow the dough to relax for 10 minutes.
Insert cheese into each dough ball, then lay them out on parchment paper on a baking sheet in a Christmas tree design. Leave space between the balls to allow the dough to expand. Cover and let proof for 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 425ºF (218ºC).
To check if the dough is ready to bake, perform a finger poke test. Poke the dough gently. If the indent springs back quickly, let it proof a little longer. If it stays and slowly retracts, it’s ready to bake.
Mix the egg and water in a small ramekin. Apply egg wash to each dough ball.
Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.
Combine chopped herbs with melted butter. Brush the butter mixture on the dough, then sprinkle with grated cheese and red pepper flakes.
Warm marinara in a small serving bowl for dipping.

Notes

Serve warm for the best cheesy experience; makes a fun appetizer or snack for holiday parties. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for about a week.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 280
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: bread, holiday recipe, pull-apart, cheesy, Christmas