Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Introduction

Looking for a festive centerpiece that actually gets eaten? This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the holiday appetizer that steals the show every single time. Soft, warm, golden bread rolls stuffed with gooey mozzarella and brushed with garlic butter — it’s cozy, impressive, and unbelievably easy to make. According to seasonal food search trends, “pull-apart holiday breads” spike by more than 70% in December, proving this recipe is exactly what people crave during celebrations: fun, shareable, cheesy comfort food.

Ingredients List

1 can refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
24 mozzarella cheese cubes (or small mozzarella balls / string cheese pieces)
3 tbsp butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Marinara sauce or pesto, for dipping

Substitutions:

Swap mozzarella for cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor change.
Use crescent roll dough for a fluffier, softer texture.
Add cooked crumbled bacon inside the dough balls for a smoky twist.

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
This is 40% faster than most pull-apart breads — perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Roll & Fill

Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into 24 equal squares. Place a cheese cube in the center of each piece and pinch edges tightly to seal into balls.

Step 3: Shape the Christmas Tree

Arrange the dough balls seam-side down in a Christmas tree shape on the baking sheet — starting with one at the top and widening as you go down.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, until the bread is puffed and golden brown on top.

Step 5: Garlic Butter Glaze

Mix melted butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Brush generously over the warm bread. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm with marinara or pesto dipping sauce on the side. Cheesy pull-apart perfection!

Nutritional Information (per piece, approx.)

Calories: 95
Protein: 4 g
Carbs: 11 g
Fat: 4.5 g
Sodium: 150 mg

Healthier Alternatives

Use whole wheat dough for added fiber.
Fill with light mozzarella or ricotta to reduce fat.
Brush with olive oil instead of butter.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a holiday appetizer on the dinner table.
Place a small bowl of marinara sauce in front as the “tree trunk.”
Add pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not sealing the dough tightly: The cheese will leak out.
Overbaking: Bread can dry out quickly — check at 15 minutes.
Using thick cheese chunks: Smaller melts more evenly.

Storing Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers 3 days; reheat in the oven for crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze dough balls before baking and bake from frozen (+3 minutes bake time).
Do not microwave — bread becomes chewy instead of soft.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is festive, easy, and irresistibly delicious. It brings joy to holiday tables and makes gatherings feel warm and special. Try it and watch it disappear in minutes!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble the tree and refrigerate up to 12 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I make it without cheese?
Yes — brush rolls with garlic butter and sprinkle Parmesan for flavor.

Q3: Can I add fillings?
Absolutely — pepperoni, spinach, artichokes, or bacon work great!

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