Name: Delicious Christmas Tree Bread: A Festive Pull-Apart Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cans Refrigerated Pizza Dough (or biscuit dough); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted for richness); 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, low-moisture for easier handling); 4 ounces Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded for flavor); 3 cloves Garlic (minced for flavor); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (finely chopped); 1 tablespoon Fresh Rosemary (finely chopped); ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano; ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional); ¼ teaspoon Salt; 1 large Egg (beaten for egg wash); 3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary (for decoration); 6 pieces Halved Cherry Tomatoes (bright accents); 1 piece Yellow Bell Pepper Star (for topping)

The aroma of fresh, baked bread wafting through the kitchen is one of those magical scents that can instantly transport me back to childhood holidays. This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is my answer to festive gatherings, merging a delightful display with warm, gooey deliciousness. It’s not just a treat for the taste buds; this pull-apart bread becomes a stunning centerpiece that will wow your guests in under 45 minutes! Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize—whether you’re going for vegetarian options or gluten-free swaps, there’s room for everyone at the table. So, are you ready to make your holiday celebrations a little more cheesy and a whole lot more fun?

Why is This Christmas Tree Bread a Must?

Unique Presentation: A stunning centrepiece that not only dazzles visually but also makes for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Endless Customization: Easily adapt this recipe for dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options to ensure everyone enjoys.

Festive Flavors: The blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering taste that’ll have guests coming back for more.

Quick Prep Time: Whip up this delightful appetizer in under 45 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute addition to your holiday spread.

Crowd-Pleaser: It’s an irresistible treat that promises smiles and satisfied appetites, ideal for holiday gatherings!

Pair with a side of Cheesy Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks Philly for an extra cheesy celebration!

Christmas Tree Bread Ingredients

For the Dough
• Refrigerated Pizza Dough – This is the base structure, and you can also use 2 cans of biscuit dough.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and assists in browning for that attractive golden color.

For the Cheese Filling
• Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Ideal for that melty pull; use low-moisture mozzarella for easier handling.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Enhances flavor and adds a delightful sharpness to the filling.

For the Seasoning
• Garlic – Minced for flavoring the butter mixture, elevating the overall taste.
• Fresh Parsley – Brings a touch of brightness and freshness; substitute with basil or thyme for a different twist.
• Fresh Rosemary – This aromatic herb introduces an earthy note.
• Dried Oregano – An additional layer of flavor that complements the cheeses beautifully.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a hint of spice to your Christmas Tree Bread if you want some heat.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing all flavors in the recipe.

For Assembly
• Egg – Beaten, for egg wash to provide a lovely golden finish on your bread.

For Garnish
• Fresh Rosemary Sprigs – Adds a festive touch for decoration.
• Halved Cherry Tomatoes – Bright and colorful accents to your tree.
• Yellow Bell Pepper Star – A cheerful garnish to crown your Christmas Tree Bread!

Embrace the holiday spirit with this Christmas Tree Bread, and let the cheesy goodness be the highlight of your festive gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread will become the flavorful centerpiece of your holiday gathering, so making sure your workspace is ready will streamline the assembly process.

Step 2: Bring Dough to Room Temperature
Allow your refrigerated pizza dough or biscuit dough to come to room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it makes the dough easier to shape and create those delightful layers. A slightly warmed dough ensures better puffing during baking, leading to that irresistible pull-apart quality you’re aiming for.

Step 3: Prepare the Flavorful Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using) along with ¼ teaspoon of salt. This fragrant butter mixture will infuse your Christmas Tree Bread with rich flavor and an aromatic touch.

Step 4: Shape the Dough
For pizza dough, roll it out into a rectangular shape approximately ¼ inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles measuring 2.5-3 inches in diameter. If you’re using biscuit dough, simply flatten each biscuit into a circle. This step ensures a uniform size for each layer of dough in your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, helping it rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 5: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine 8 ounces of shredded fresh mozzarella cheese and 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese. Tossing the cheeses together will allow for even distribution of flavors throughout your Christmas Tree Bread. The combination of these cheeses creates that melty goodness that is so irresistible and inviting during festive gatherings.

Step 6: Brush the Dough Circles
Using a pastry brush, generously brush one side of each dough circle with the prepared garlic butter mixture. This flavorful coating will add richness and aid in browning during baking, resulting in a beautifully golden exterior on your bread. Make sure to coat all circles to ensure they taste delightful from the very first bite.

Step 7: Assemble Your Christmas Tree
Begin stacking the dough circles on the prepared baking sheet, starting with the trunk at the bottom, followed by layers of cheese in between each dough circle. Aim for a Christmas tree shape, tapering towards the top. This assembly creates not only a stunning visual appeal but also ensures that each pull reveals a gooey stretch of melted cheese.

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches
Once assembled, brush the entire dough tree with any leftover garlic butter mixture and a beaten egg for a beautiful, shiny finish. This step adds to the visual appeal of your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread by ensuring an enticing golden crust. The egg wash enhances that bakery-fresh look, making your creation even more inviting!

Step 9: Decorate Your Tree
For a festive touch, garnish your Christmas Tree Bread with fresh rosemary sprigs, halved cherry tomatoes, and a yellow bell pepper star at the top. This will not only enhance the presentation but also add splashes of color that are bound to impress your guests, bringing holiday cheer to your table.

Step 10: Bake Until Golden
Place your decorated Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling out from between the layers. It’s the visual cue you want to see! The enticing aromas wafting through your kitchen will let you know that your festive appetizer is almost ready to be enjoyed.

Step 11: Rest Before Serving
After baking, remove the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Allowing the bread to rest slightly will enhance the flavor while making it easier to pull apart. This little wait will build anticipation and ensure that your delightful holiday appetizer is perfect to serve at your festive gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the bread up to 6 hours in advance and refrigerate it, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply follow the assembly instructions, then cover the shaped tree tightly with plastic wrap before chilling. This way, it will stay fresh and maintain its quality. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge, brush with the garlic butter and egg wash, and proceed to bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly. This simple prep-ahead method ensures you can enjoy a stunning, delicious centerpiece with minimal effort on the day of your holiday gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Tree Bread

Room Temperature: Store leftover Christmas Tree Bread at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered loosely with a kitchen towel to maintain some freshness.

Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat, covered, in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture.

Freezer: You can freeze unbaked Christmas Tree Bread for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking to enjoy fresh, warm pulls.

Reheating: For optimal results, reheat any leftover bread in the oven instead of the microwave. This helps retain its flaky texture and gooey cheese goodness.

Variations & Substitutions for Christmas Tree Bread

Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste!

Vegetarian: Substitute with dairy-free cheese and enjoy a festive treat that’s suitable for plant-based diets.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough instead of traditional dough for a delightful, inclusive addition to your holiday table.
Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil into the cheese filling for a burst of flavor that sings of summer.
Spicy Kick: Swap out mozzarella for pepper jack cheese and include jalapeños for a delightful heat that contrasts perfectly with the creamy cheese.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different fresh herbs like thyme or dill in the butter to create a unique flavor profile for your Christmas Tree Bread.
Creamy Alternative: Replace sharp cheddar with provolone for a milder, creamier cheese experience that pairs beautifully with the mozzarella.
Shape it Up: Get creative with the shape! Use star-shaped cutters for holiday flair or braid the dough into a festive wreath.

For even more cheesy goodness, consider serving this alongside Cheesy Garlic Bread or adding a platter of Cheesy Breadsticks Philly to your holiday spread!

Expert Tips for Christmas Tree Bread

Room Temperature Dough: Ensure your dough is at room temperature for easy shaping. Cold dough can be difficult to roll and layer properly.

Generous Cheese Layers: Use plenty of cheese between each layer for that dramatic pull you want in your Christmas Tree Bread. More is definitely merrier here!

Accept Cheese Leakage: A little cheese leakage during baking is completely normal and can lead to crispy, delicious edges—embrace it!

Dairy-Free Options: For those avoiding dairy, feel free to substitute with gluten-free pizza dough and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a delicious result that everyone can enjoy.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble your Christmas Tree Bread ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before baking, or freeze it unbaked for up to a month for stress-free holiday prep.

What to Serve with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Elevate your holiday gatherings by pairing this delightful appetizer with perfect accompaniments that bring a festive flourish to your table.

Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that offers a rich, tangy flavor for dipping, enhancing the cheesy goodness of the bread.
Garlic Aioli: Creamy with a hint of garlic, this sauce adds a luxurious dip, making each pull even more indulgent.
Sparkling Cider: This festive drink complements the savory bread while adding a refreshing sparkle, perfect for holiday toasts.
Seasonal Salad: A crisp arugula salad with pomegranate seeds can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm cheesy bread, balancing flavors beautifully.
Roasted Veggies: Serve with a platter of tender, caramelized vegetables for a delightful touch of earthiness that contrasts with the rich cheese.
Cheese Platter: Enhance the experience with a variety of cheeses and crackers for tasting, keeping the cheese theme alive throughout your spread.
Mini Quiches: Bite-sized and packed with flavor, these warm quiches can complement the bread while offering variety for your guests.
Chocolate Fondue: A sweet ending; serve with assorted fruits and marshmallows, inviting everyone to indulge in something decadent after the festive feast.
Mulled Wine: Infuse your gathering with the cozy warmth of mulled wine, creating the perfect drink to sip while enjoying your delicious bread.
Holiday Cookies: A selection of sweet holiday cookies can round off the meal with delightful treats that everyone will enjoy.

Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of dough is best for making Christmas Tree Bread?
For the best results, I recommend using refrigerated pizza dough for a sturdy base. Alternatively, you can use biscuit dough for a flakier texture. Just remember, if you choose biscuit dough, flatten the biscuits before cutting them into circles to ensure they stack nicely for that festive tree shape!

How do I store leftover Christmas Tree Bread?
To keep your leftover Christmas Tree Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for that perfect crispy exterior!

Can I freeze unbaked Christmas Tree Bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze your assembled but unbaked Christmas Tree Bread for up to 1 month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight before popping it in the oven for that fresh, warm pull-apart delight.

What should I do if the dough is too cold to work with?
If your dough is too cold, it can be hard to roll out and shape. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This step makes a world of difference, as warm dough is much easier to handle and will puff up nicely during baking.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Yes! Since this Christmas Tree Bread contains dairy (mozzarella and cheddar cheese) and gluten (pizza or biscuit dough), it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies. However, you can easily tailor the recipe with gluten-free pizza dough and dairy-free cheese alternatives to ensure everyone can join in on the festive fun!

How do I enhance the flavor of my Christmas Tree Bread?
To boost the flavor, don’t just stick to the base seasonings! Feel free to add herbs like basil or thyme, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. Experimentation is part of the joy in cooking, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavor combinations!