Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the perfect festive centerpiece for your holiday table. Its fun, tree-shaped design, combined with gooey, melted cheese and soft, fluffy bread, makes it both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. Plus, it’s easy to pull apart, making it a fun, interactive appetizer for guests of all ages.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Refrigerated pizza dough or homemade dough
Mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
Butter, melted
Garlic, minced
Fresh parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface.
Cut the dough into small squares, large enough to wrap around a cube of mozzarella.
Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of each dough square and pinch the edges to seal, forming a ball.
Arrange the dough balls in the shape of a Christmas tree on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with melted butter mixed with minced garlic.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and brush with more melted butter, then sprinkle with chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 people
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Stuffed Additions: Add cooked bacon bits, chopped pepperoni, or sun-dried tomatoes inside the dough balls for extra flavor.
Herb Infusion: Mix rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning into the melted butter for a fragrant touch.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan butter to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave individual portions for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

FAQs

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to seal the dough tightly around the cheese cubes to prevent leaks during baking.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bread a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What type of dough works best?

Refrigerated pizza dough is convenient, but homemade dough provides a fresh, soft texture.

Can I freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

Yes, freeze the unbaked dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What dipping sauces work well with this bread?

Marinara sauce is classic, but you can also use ranch, garlic butter, or a cheese dip.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Avoid overloading with butter before baking and serve immediately to maintain crispness.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, pull-apart design and the fun shape.

Can I add vegetables to this bread?

Yes, finely chopped, cooked vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be added inside the dough balls.

How do I make the tree shape more defined?

Arrange the dough balls closely together and adjust the shape before baking to maintain the tree form.

Can I use different seasonings?

Yes, feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a festive, flavorful, and fun addition to any holiday celebration. Its gooey, cheesy center and soft, golden crust make it irresistible, while its playful design adds a charming touch to your holiday table. Easy to prepare and customize, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite year after year.