Description
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the ultimate holiday appetizer—soft, golden pull-apart rolls stuffed with gooey melted cheese, brushed with garlic-herb butter, and baked in the shape of a festive Christmas tree. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to impress guests at any holiday gathering. Whether served as a party starter, family appetizer, or festive centerpiece, this cheesy bread is fun, delicious, and irresistibly festive.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheet
- 24–30 small cubes of mozzarella cheese (or shredded cheese rolled into balls)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Extra herbs for garnish
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce or ranch dressing (optional for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut and stuff dough: Unroll pizza dough and cut into 24–30 squares. Place a cube of cheese in each square and pinch edges to seal, forming dough balls.
- Shape the tree: Arrange dough balls seam-side down on baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, ending with a small trunk made of 2 balls.
- Brush with egg wash: Beat the egg lightly and brush over dough balls for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
- Make garlic butter: While bread bakes, mix melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
- Brush and garnish: Brush warm bread generously with garlic butter. Add Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or parsley as desired.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with marinara or ranch dip.
Notes
- Use block mozzarella for easier stuffing and better melt.
- Seal dough balls tightly to prevent cheese leakage.
- If using crescent dough, pinch seams before cutting.
- Add-ins like jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or herb cheeses add more flavor.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze stuffed dough balls before baking for later use.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American