Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 137 reviews
  • Author: Mia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
  • Total Time: 26-28 minutes
  • Yield: 15 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a festive, savory appetizer that features tender dough balls filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection in the shape of a Christmas tree. Topped with a flavorful herb-parmesan butter, this delightful bread is perfect for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with marinara or pesto for dipping.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the dough and filling:

  • 13 ounce canned refrigerator pizza dough
  • 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks

For the egg wash:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water

For the herb butter topping:

  • 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 serving:

  • Marinara and/or pesto sauces for dipping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the dough and cheese: Cut the canned pizza dough into approximately 30 evenly-sized squares. Also, cut each mozzarella stick into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
  3. Assemble the dough balls: Place one mozzarella piece onto each dough square. Gather the edges and gently roll into a ball, sealing the edges by smoothing with your hands.
  4. Shape into a Christmas tree: Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, ensuring they are touching and seam side down for stability.
  5. Apply egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Lightly brush the tops of each dough ball with the egg wash using a pastry brush or spoon.
  6. Bake the bread: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
  7. Prepare herb butter: While the bread bakes, microwave the melted butter until hot. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese, the grated garlic, and chopped herbs.
  8. Brush and garnish: Once baked, brush the hot bread with the herb butter mixture. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor and presentation.
  9. Serve immediately: Slice and serve the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread hot with marinara or pesto sauces for dipping.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes or additional herbs before baking.
  • Ensure the dough pieces are sealed tightly to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
  • This recipe can be customized with different cheeses or herbs according to preference.
  • Serving this bread fresh out of the oven guarantees the best gooey cheese experience.
  • Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to easily cut the mozzarella sticks into smaller pieces.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece
  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg