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Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and festive treat that is perfect for the holiday season. It not only looks great on the table, but it also tastes delicious. The combination of warm, gooey mozzarella cheese wrapped in buttery bread makes it a hit for all ages. This recipe is easy to make and is sure to bring holiday cheer to your gatherings.

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Ingredients:

13 ounces 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)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cut the dough into approximately 30 equal squares and cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized (1-inch) pieces.
Place a piece of mozzarella in each square of dough and form a ball by rolling it with your hands to smooth and seal the edges.
Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down, in the shape of a Christmas tree, ensuring they are touching each other.
In a small bowl, blend the egg and water for the egg wash and lightly brush each ball with the mixture.
Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave, then stir in half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and herbs. Brush this mixture onto the rolls after they come out of the oven, then sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.

How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm right out of the oven. It’s great as an appetizer, snack, or even as part of a holiday meal. Make sure to have some marinara or pesto on the side for dipping to enhance the flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Try to consume them within 2-3 days for best flavor and texture. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Tips to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance the flavor, but you can also use dried herbs if fresh is not available.
Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor twist.
Make it ahead: Prepare the dough balls earlier in the day and keep them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them.

Variation

You can switch out the mozzarella for other types of cheese, like cheddar or gouda, and add ingredients like cooked bacon bits or chopped spinach for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of canned dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works great too! Just make sure it is rolled out thin enough for easy shaping.
Can I freeze Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the formed dough balls before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer them to an airtight container once frozen.
How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread is done when it is golden brown on the outside. You can also tap it gently; it should sound hollow when fully cooked.