Description
Enjoy a festive twist on cheesy bread with this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread recipe. Soft, pull-apart dough balls are stuffed with gooey mozzarella, arranged in a charming Christmas tree shape, brushed with an egg wash, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a flavorful garlic herb butter and Parmesan topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings and sharing with family and friends, served warm with marinara or pesto for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough and Cheese
- 1 (13 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
- 6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 30 pieces)
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
Garlic Herb Butter Topping
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, grated
For Serving
- Marinara and/or pesto sauces for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough and Cheese: Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into 30 equal squares. Slice the mozzarella sticks into about 30 bite-sized 1-inch pieces, one for each dough square.
- Assemble Bread Balls: Place a piece of mozzarella in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough around the cheese, completely sealing the edges to encase the cheese, then roll each into a smooth ball.
- Shape the Christmas Tree: Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Make sure the balls touch each other closely to create a pull-apart design once baked.
- Apply Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Lightly brush the tops of all the dough balls with this egg wash to give them a shiny, golden crust after baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bread balls for 16–18 minutes, or until the bread is puffed up and golden brown on top.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Topping: While the bread bakes, melt the butter in the microwave. Mix in half of the Parmesan cheese, the grated garlic, and all the finely chopped fresh herbs until well combined.
- Finish and Serve: When the bread is out of the oven, immediately brush the garlic herb butter generously over the warm bread balls. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Serve warm with marinara and/or pesto sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure the dough balls are sealed tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- You can substitute mozzarella sticks with other melting cheeses like provolone or cheddar if preferred.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning over the dough before baking.
- Make sure to serve warm for the best gooey cheese experience.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
