Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful and whimsical appetizer perfect for festive gatherings. This warm, pull-apart bread is crafted from refrigerated pizza dough, making it incredibly easy to prepare. Loaded with herby garlic butter and plenty of cheese, it’s an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with marinara or pesto. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a fun side dish, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create an impressive dish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of mozzarella and parmesan, along with fresh herbs, makes each bite rich and flavorful.
• Perfect for Sharing: Its pull-apart design encourages sharing, making it ideal for gatherings and parties.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Enjoy it with marinara or pesto, offering a choice that caters to different palates.
• Festive Presentation: Shaped like a Christmas tree, this bread adds a charming touch to your holiday table.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread effectively, you’ll need some key tools. Having the right equipment not only makes the process smoother but also ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your bread evenly and allows for easy handling.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless after baking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like melted butter with herbs and cheese.

Ingredients

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

• 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks

For the Egg Wash

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

For the Herbed Butter

• 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 your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough and Cheese

Cut the dough into approximately 30 equal squares. Then, cut each mozzarella cheese stick into 30 bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch).

Step 3: Form the Balls

Place one piece of mozzarella in the center of each square of dough. Roll each square into a ball by smoothing and sealing the edges with your hands.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet seam side down in a tree shape where they are touching. In a small bowl, blend together the egg and water, then lightly brush each ball with this egg wash.

Step 5: Bake & Brush with Herb Mixture

Bake in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes or until golden brown. While baking, microwave the butter until melted. Stir in half of the parmesan cheese along with all grated garlic and chopped herbs. Once baked, brush this mixture onto the rolls and sprinkle with remaining parmesan before serving immediately with marinara or pesto for dipping.

How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful pull-apart treat that brings a festive touch to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: This classic tomato sauce adds a rich flavor and pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the bread.
• Pesto Sauce: A vibrant basil pesto offers a fresh and herby contrast, enhancing the overall taste.
• Garlic Butter: Drizzle warm garlic butter over the bread for an extra boost of flavor and richness.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and brie to complement the cheesy bread.
• Fresh Vegetables: Add crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for freshness.
• Olives and Pickles: These add a briny touch that can balance out the richness of the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.

Accompanied by Soup

• Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes for a comforting pairing, perfect for dipping.
• Minestrone Soup: This hearty vegetable soup complements the flavors of the cheesy bread while providing extra nutrition.

How to Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

To ensure your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; you want the bread golden brown but not dry.
• Allow to Cool Slightly: Letting it cool for a few minutes before serving helps maintain its shape and makes it easier to pull apart.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different cheeses or herbs based on your preferences for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

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

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing that adds crunch and freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring color and nutrients to your meal.
3. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer alongside cheesy bread.
4. Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy dip that provides additional indulgence when enjoyed with the pull-apart bread.
5. Garlic Knots: These buttery knots echo the garlic flavor in the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, enhancing your dining experience.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats (like turkey), cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates variety on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread can be a fun experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure the oven reaches the right temperature before baking.
• Skipping Egg Wash: Omitting the egg wash can lead to dull-looking bread. Brush each dough ball with the egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
• Cutting Uneven Dough Squares: If the squares of dough are not cut evenly, some pieces may bake faster than others. Use a sharp knife and measure for consistency.
• Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: Placing dough balls too close together can prevent even baking. Make sure they are just touching and have space around them.
• Ignoring Serving Suggestions: Not serving with marinara or pesto can take away from the overall taste experience. These dips enhance flavors and add variety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the bread in its original shape if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds or until warmed through. Be cautious as it can become chewy.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.

Can I use different types of cheese in Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar or gouda for varied flavors.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply substitute any meat-based ingredients with additional vegetables or keep it cheesy!

What dips pair well with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

Marinara and pesto are excellent choices, but you can also try garlic butter or ranch dressing.

How do I customize my Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

You can add spices, chopped vegetables, or different herbs to change the flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is not only visually appealing but also delicious and versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs and cheeses, making it suitable for any gathering. Give this festive bread a try at your next holiday party!