Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread | Festive Pull-Apart Appetize

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the ultimate holiday appetizer that brings fun, flavor, and a touch of magic to your table. Warm, buttery, and stuffed with gooey mozzarella, this festive pull-apart bread is perfect for cozy gatherings. With simple prep and endless dipping options, it’s guaranteed to become a holiday tradition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something irresistible about warm bread stuffed with melty cheese, and this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread delivers exactly that. You only need refrigerated dough, mozzarella sticks, and a handful of herbs to create a show-stopping centerpiece. It’s easy enough for weeknight entertaining but festive enough to shine on your Christmas table. The buttery, garlicky topping makes every bite savory and satisfying, while the pull-apart design ensures everyone gets a share. Even better, you can swap in your favorite dips or herbs to match your family’s taste. This recipe isn’t just food—it’s a fun, interactive way to gather around the table and celebrate together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dough and Cheese

Use 13 oz of refrigerated pizza dough for ease and consistency. If you’d like a homemade touch, swap in your favorite yeast dough recipe. For the filling, you’ll need 6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into bite-sized pieces. These melt beautifully, but you can also try cheddar, pepper jack, or even brie for a different twist.

Egg Wash

A simple mix of one egg and a tablespoon of water creates the perfect golden crust. Without this step, the bread will still taste good but won’t have that irresistible holiday glow.

Garlic Herb Butter

This topping is where the flavor truly shines. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter and stir in fresh parsley, rosemary, basil, and grated garlic. Half of the parmesan goes in here too, infusing the bread with savory, aromatic richness.

Finishing Touches and Dips

Sprinkle the remaining parmesan over the baked bread for a cheesy crown. Serve warm with marinara, pizza sauce, or pesto. For a fun holiday spread, include a few dips so guests can pick their favorite.

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Step by Step

Step 1 – Prep the Dough and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the pizza dough into 30 small squares. Slice the mozzarella sticks into 30 one-inch pieces.

Step 2 – Form the Dough Balls

Place one piece of cheese in each dough square. Wrap the dough tightly around the cheese and pinch to seal. Roll gently to form smooth balls, placing the seam side down.

Step 3 – Arrange into a Christmas Tree

On the parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the dough balls so they touch slightly, forming a Christmas tree shape. Start with one ball at the top, then build wider rows as you move down.

Step 4 – Brush with Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk the egg with water and brush it lightly over the dough balls. Bake in the oven for 16–18 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 5 – Add Garlic Herb Butter and Parmesan

While the bread bakes, melt butter and stir in garlic, parsley, rosemary, basil, and half the parmesan. Brush this mixture over the hot bread, then sprinkle with the remaining parmesan.

Step 6 – Serve with Dipping Sauce

Transfer the tree to a platter if desired. Serve warm with marinara, pizza sauce, or pesto. Watch as everyone pulls apart cheesy, buttery bites.

Recipe Tips and Variations

To keep your bread looking neat, seal the dough tightly so cheese doesn’t leak while baking. Arrange the balls close together to help them hold the Christmas tree shape. For even browning, rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking. Want a flavor twist? Swap mozzarella for gouda or add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the butter. You could also try thyme or oregano in place of rosemary for a different herbal note. Offering multiple dips, from classic marinara to creamy spinach dip, makes this appetizer even more fun and versatile.

Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Busy holiday season? No problem. Prepare and fill the dough balls as instructed but skip the egg wash. Freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw at room temperature for 45 minutes. After thawing, arrange into a tree, brush with egg wash, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Do not freeze after applying the egg wash—it won’t bake properly later.

Serving Suggestions

This bread is a festive centerpiece, but it also pairs beautifully with other dishes. Serve it alongside hearty mains like prime rib, roast chicken, or lasagna. It’s also a great companion for cozy soups such as tomato basil or creamy broccoli. For a complete Christmas menu, pair this appetizer with a side like cheesy scalloped potatoes Christmas side dish or a bright salad to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the bread in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp again. The microwave works in a pinch but may soften the bread. For the best texture, avoid reheating multiple times.

FAQs About Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Related Recipes to Try

• Savory garlic bread rolls for Thanksgiving
• Creamy cranberry cream cheese crescent bites
• Cheesy scalloped potatoes Christmas side dish
• Festive Christmas stuffed pasta
• Buttery salted maple pie
• Warm and cozy spinach and artichoke wonton cups

Conclusion

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is more than just an appetizer—it’s a festive centerpiece that brings everyone together. With gooey cheese, buttery garlic flavor, and a playful holiday shape, it’s guaranteed to impress. The recipe is simple, flexible, and easy to make ahead, making it perfect for busy holiday hosts. Try it this season and watch it become the most requested dish at your Christmas gatherings. For even more festive food inspiration, you can find cozy holiday ideas on my Pinterest boards.

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