Create the Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread for the Holidays!

Bring the magic of the holiday season to your table with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread! This delightful recipe combines the comforting flavors of mozzarella, parmesan, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped up in a fun and festive presentation. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a cozy winter treat, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

• 13 ounce canned refrigerator pizza dough
• Parchment paper for lining baking sheet
• 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
• 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
• 1 jar marinara and/or pesto for dipping

Shaping the Dough into a Cheesy Christmas Tree

The key to creating the festive Christmas tree shape is all in the dough. Start by rolling out the pizza dough into a triangle shape, resembling a Christmas tree. Place the mozzarella cheese sticks in the center of the triangle, leaving the edges free. Carefully fold the dough over the cheese to enclose it, forming the “tree trunk.” Then, make small cuts along the sides of the dough and twist them slightly to create the “branches” of your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.

Baking and Serving the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Once the dough is shaped, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Whisk an egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash, then brush it over the dough. This will give the bread a beautiful golden-brown color as it bakes. Next, brush the melted butter over the dough and sprinkle half of the parmesan cheese, along with the fresh herbs and grated garlic. Pop it in the oven and let the magic happen!

After 20-25 minutes of baking, your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread will emerge from the oven, golden and irresistible. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top and serve it warm with your choice of marinara sauce and/or pesto for dipping. This appetizer is sure to be the star of your holiday spread, delighting guests with its festive appearance and mouthwatering flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

To ensure your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread turns out beautifully, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The herbs, garlic, and high-quality mozzarella and parmesan cheeses will really make the flavors shine.
• Get Creative with the Cheese: While mozzarella sticks work great, you can also experiment with other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, to suit your taste preferences.
• Bake to Perfection: Keep a close eye on the bread during the baking process, as ovens can vary. You want the crust to be golden brown and the cheese to be melted and bubbly.
• Serve Warm and Garnished: Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top just before serving to add a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm, with the melted cheese oozing out in all its glory.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is the ultimate holiday appetizer, perfect for entertaining or as a cozy snack on a chilly winter day. Serve it as the centerpiece of your holiday spread, accompanied by a selection of dips, such as marinara sauce, pesto, or even a creamy garlic dip. This festive bread also pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or a seasonal cocktail, making it the perfect addition to your holiday festivities.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Caprese Bread
• Garlic Parmesan Knots
• Holiday Spinach Dip Bread Bowl

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are required to make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

The key ingredients for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread include refrigerator pizza dough, mozzarella cheese sticks, parmesan cheese, and a variety of fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, and basil. You’ll also need an egg for the egg wash, melted butter, and your choice of dipping sauces like marinara or pesto.

How do you shape the dough into a Christmas tree?

To shape the dough into a Christmas tree, start by rolling it out into a triangle shape. Place the mozzarella cheese sticks in the center of the triangle, then fold the dough over the cheese to enclose it, forming the “trunk” of the tree. Next, make small cuts along the sides of the dough and twist them slightly to create the “branches” of the Christmas tree.

Can I use different types of cheese for this bread?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mozzarella and parmesan, you can experiment with other types of cheese that melt well, such as cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses. Just be sure to adjust the amounts accordingly to ensure the perfect cheesy filling.

What is the best way to bake and serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?

To bake the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. After shaping the dough, brush it with an egg wash and top it with the melted butter, herbs, and parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm, sprinkled with the remaining parmesan cheese, and accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces.

Conclusion

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful and festive addition to your holiday celebrations. With its melted cheese, fragrant herbs, and fun, tree-shaped presentation, this appetizer is sure to delight your guests and create a cozy, merry atmosphere in your home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of this irresistible Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. Your taste buds and holiday guests will thank you!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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