Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can easily swap mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or fontina. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will offer different melt and flavor profiles. For a sharper taste, try using aged cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan.

Can I make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough balls, freeze them, and bake them when ready. After forming the cheese-filled dough balls, freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen, store them in a zip-top bag and bake when needed. Just remember to thaw them before adding the egg wash and baking.

How can I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, place the cooled Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore the golden, crispy texture.

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: A Fun and Delicious Holiday Appetizer

Name: Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-494607H13M58S
Total time: PT-494607H13M58S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (13 oz) refrigerated pizza dough; 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into 30 pieces; 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash); 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; Marinara sauce, pizza sauce, or pesto (for dipping)

Description

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a festive, savory appetizer perfect for the holiday season. This pull-apart bread is filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, garlic butter, and fresh herbs, making it an irresistible treat for family gatherings and holiday parties. Easy to make with pre-made pizza dough, it’s a fun and delicious way to add a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 can (13 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
6–7 mozzarella cheese sticks, cut into 30 pieces
1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
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
Marinara sauce, pizza sauce, or pesto (for dipping)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into 30 equal squares.
Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 pieces and place one piece of cheese on each dough square.
Roll each dough square into a ball, pinching the edges to seal the cheese inside.
Place the dough balls on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, making sure the balls lightly touch each other.
Whisk the egg and water in a small bowl, then brush the egg wash over the dough balls.
Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese, grated garlic, and fresh herbs.
Once the bread is baked, brush the garlic butter mixture over the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately with marinara, pizza sauce, or pesto for dipping.

Notes

Ensure that the dough is tightly sealed around the cheese to avoid leakage during baking.
For a spicier version, you can add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
You can prepare the dough balls ahead of time and freeze them for up to 2 ½ hours before baking.
Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda, for added flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 150
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg