Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the perfect festive appetizer for any holiday gathering. This delightful pull-apart bread features warm, gooey cheese surrounded by herby garlic butter, all shaped like a Christmas tree. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or simply looking for a cozy family treat, this dish will impress your guests and bring holiday cheer to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Using refrigerated pizza dough simplifies the process, allowing you to enjoy homemade bread without the fuss.
• Perfect for Sharing: The pull-apart design makes it fun and interactive, ideal for gatherings with friends and family.
• Deliciously Cheesy: With mozzarella and parmesan, each bite is packed with cheesy goodness that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Serve with marinara or pesto for a burst of flavor, making it suitable for varied palates.
• Festive Presentation: The tree shape adds a charming touch to your holiday table, making it both delicious and visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, having the right tools on hand makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Brush (for egg wash)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your bread evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like the egg wash or garlic butter mixture.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 13 ounce canned refrigerator pizza dough
• parchment paper (for lining baking sheet)

For the Cheese Filling

• 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks

For the Egg Wash

• 1 large egg (+ 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)

For the Garlic Butter Mixture

• 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)

For Dipping

• 1 jar marinara and/or pesto (for dipping)

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare it for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

• Cut the dough into approximately 30 equal squares.
• Slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Assemble the Balls

• Place one piece of mozzarella in each square of dough.
• Form a ball by rolling each square in your hands to seal the edges smoothly.

Step 4: Shape Your Christmas Tree

• Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet seam side down in a tree shape, ensuring they are touching each other.
• In a small bowl, blend together the egg and water. Brush this egg wash lightly over each ball.

Step 5: Bake and Add Flavor

Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown. While baking, microwave the melted butter and mix in half of the parmesan cheese along with grated garlic and herbs. Once baked, brush this mixture onto the rolls. Sprinkle with remaining parmesan before serving warm with marinara or pesto. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread makes for a delightful appetizer that can be served in various ways. Whether you want to impress your guests at a holiday party or enjoy a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your culinary experience.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: A classic choice, marinara adds a tangy flavor that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Pesto: This vibrant green sauce brings a fresh basil taste that pairs beautifully with the herby bread.
• Garlic Butter Dip: For extra richness, a side of melted garlic butter can elevate every bite.

Serve on a Festive Platter

• Garnished with Herbs: Create an eye-catching display by garnishing your platter with fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs.
• Accompanied by Veggies: Add crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for color and texture.

Incorporate into a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Selection: Include a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar and brie, to complement the flavors of the bread.
• Cured Meats: Salami or prosciutto can add savory notes that balance the cheesiness.

Enjoy as Part of a Holiday Meal

• With Soup: Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or butternut squash soup for a comforting combination.
• As an Appetizer Before Dinner: Offer it as the first course to get everyone excited about the meal ahead.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

To ensure your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and good-quality cheese for maximum flavor.
• Roll Evenly: Make sure each dough ball is rolled evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bread while it bakes; ovens may vary and you want them golden brown without burning.
• Egg Wash for Shine: Applying an egg wash before baking will give your bread a beautiful golden finish.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different cheeses or herbs based on personal preference for variety.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve hot right out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Pairing Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can balance the richness of the bread.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs complement the flavors of the tree bread perfectly.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs create a hearty pairing that everyone loves.
5. Creamy Tomato Soup: This classic soup offers warmth and comfort alongside cheesy pull-apart goodness.
6. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bread, making it great for balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the egg wash: This step adds a beautiful golden color and shine. Always brush each dough ball with the egg wash before baking.
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your oven reaches 400°F before placing your bread inside.
• Inconsistent dough sizes: Unevenly sized dough balls may result in some being overcooked while others are underdone. Aim for uniform size when cutting the dough.
• Using too much garlic: While garlic adds flavor, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to the recipe for a balanced taste.
• Forgetting to let it cool slightly: Serving immediately from the oven can burn your mouth. Let your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Neglecting dipping sauces: This recipe is fantastic on its own, but adding marinara or pesto elevates it further. Don’t forget those delicious dips!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, but this may make them chewy.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, we’ve got answers!

What is Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a fun, pull-apart appetizer made from pizza dough, filled with mozzarella cheese, and topped with herby garlic butter.

Can I customize the cheese used?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with cheddar or gouda for different flavors.

How do I serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

This dish works great as an appetizer or side dish with marinara or pesto for dipping.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is not just visually appealing; it’s also incredibly delicious and perfect for gatherings. Feel free to customize it with different cheeses or herbs based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try at your next holiday celebration; it’s sure to impress!