This Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread is the perfect holiday appetizer! Soft, fluffy rolls filled with gooey cheese are arranged in a festive Christmas tree shape and brushed with a delicious garlic butter topping.
Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or enjoying a cozy family gathering, this pull-apart bread will be a crowd favorite. It’s easy to make, fun to assemble, and pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. Plus, it’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit with a dish that looks as festive as it tastes. Follow this simple recipe to create a stunning, cheesy masterpiece!
Ingredients:
For the Dough (or Use Store-Bought Pizza Dough)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
For the Garlic Butter Topping
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
For Garnishing
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that the yeast is activated, which will help the dough rise properly.
Next, add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix everything together until a dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
(If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, skip this step and move to the next one.)
Step 2: Shape the Christmas Tree
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the dough from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface and cut it into small, equal-sized pieces. Flatten each piece and place a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully pinch the edges together to seal the cheese inside, forming a smooth dough ball.
Arrange the filled dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Start with a single ball at the top, then add more balls in rows, increasing in number to form a triangular shape. Place an extra ball at the bottom to resemble the tree trunk. Make sure to leave a little space between the dough balls, as they will expand while baking.
Step 3: Bake & Add Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the dough balls with this garlic butter mixture. This will give them a deliciously rich and aromatic flavor as they bake.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and slightly crispy on top. Keep an eye on it to ensure even browning.
Once baked, remove the pull-apart bread from the oven and immediately sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley over the top for an extra burst of flavor and festive appeal.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Let the Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to pull apart. For the perfect finishing touch, serve it with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
This delightful, cheesy, and garlicky bread is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Not only does it taste amazing, but its beautiful presentation makes it a festive centerpiece for any Christmas celebration. Enjoy the holiday season with this easy and delicious recipe! 🎄✨
Let me know if you’d like any modifications!
