Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

This pull-apart cheesy Christmas tree bread is a delightful holiday appetizer that brings festive cheer and irresistible flavor to any gathering. Soft dough pockets filled with creamy cheese blend perfectly baked into a fun festive shape make for a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple enough to prepare quickly but impressive enough to wow guests without much fuss.

I first made this recipe at a Christmas party where it quickly became the star of the table. Now it’s one of my go-to crowd pleasers every festive season.

Gather Your Ingredients

• One tube of refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheet: choose fresh dough for the best texture
• Four ounces softened cream cheese: adds a rich, creamy center to complement the mozzarella
• One and a half cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy pull
• Half teaspoon garlic powder: imparts a gentle savory note enhancing the cheese filling
• Half teaspoon Italian seasoning: brings herbal warmth and balance
• One beaten egg for egg wash: gives the bread a gorgeous golden shine when baked
• Fresh chopped parsley: optional garnish for color and brightness
• Grated parmesan cheese: optional topping for a salty, umami boost
• Marinara or pizza sauce: perfect for dipping, adding a tangy contrast

How to Make It

Sauté the Aromatics:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.

Prepare the Cheese Filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well mixed. The blend should be smooth and creamy, ensuring an even flavor in every bite.

Cut the Dough:

Unroll your pizza or crescent dough onto a clean flat surface. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide the dough into 32 equal square pieces. Aim for uniform sizing so that all rolls cook evenly.

Fill and Seal Dough Balls:

Take each square and place about one teaspoon of the cheese mixture into its center. Fold the dough around the filling carefully and pinch the edges to seal fully. This keeps the cheese inside while baking and forms perfect, small dough balls.

Shape the Christmas Tree:

On your prepared baking sheet, arrange the sealed dough balls seam-side down into the shape of a Christmas tree. Take your time creating a triangular design that’s visually appealing.

Apply the Egg Wash:

Brush the entire surface of the arranged dough balls with beaten egg. This step is crucial for getting that irresistible golden brown color and shiny finish as the bread bakes.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 16 to 18 minutes. Watch for a deep golden brown appearance indicating that the bread is cooked through and the cheese is melted inside.

Final Touches and Serving:

Remove from the oven and optionally sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese for extra aroma and flavor. Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping and enjoy the festive pull-apart experience.

Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient here because it melts to that ideal stringy texture that makes this pull-apart bread so fun to eat. I remember my family gathered around the table one Christmas Eve, dipping these cheesy bites into spicy marinara, laughing and savoring every warm, gooey piece. It has become a tradition ever since.

Flavor Boosters

Serve alongside a bowl of warm marinara sauce or a creamy garlic dip. Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. These bread bites also make a great accompaniment to soup or stew at holiday meals.

Serving Suggestions

Seasonal Adaptations include adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese mix for a cozy twist. Use fresh rosemary on top for a holiday aroma. During warmer months omit parsley for fresh basil garnish to lighten the flavor.

Creative Twists

Ingredient substitutions allow swapping the mozzarella for cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a sharper flavor profile. Using herb-infused cream cheese adds an extra layer of taste. You can replace Italian seasoning with fresh chopped herbs like basil or oregano if preferred.

This cheesy Christmas tree bread always impresses with its festive look and gooey cheese pull, making it a memorable addition to any holiday celebration.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of dough works best for this bread?

Refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheets provide a soft, pliable base that bakes evenly and complements the cheese filling.

→ Can I use different cheeses for the filling?

Absolutely. Mozzarella and cream cheese are classic, but you can experiment with cheddar, gouda, or other melty cheeses for varied flavors.

→ How should I store leftovers to keep them fresh?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with this bread?

Marinara sauce is a traditional choice, but ranch, garlic butter, or pesto also complement the cheesy bread beautifully.

→ Can I prepare this bread ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dough balls and refrigerate them before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture and warmth.