Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: 4 Easy Steps to Impress

If there’s one thing that can make your holiday table sparkle even brighter (besides twinkly lights and your Aunt Linda’s famous punch), it’s this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. Warm, gooey, and downright adorable, this recipe turns simple pizza dough and melty cheese into a centerpiece that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Trust me, this is one of those “wow” dishes that makes everyone believe you’ve got holiday magic up your sleeve.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

If you need convincing that this festive pull-apart bread deserves a spot at your next holiday gathering, here’s why it’s pure magic:

• It’s a Showstopper: Shaped like a Christmas tree and golden brown from the oven, this bread doubles as both decoration and appetizer. Guests will be snapping photos before they even take a bite.
• Ridiculously Easy: Made with refrigerated pizza dough and cheese sticks, it’s a stress-free way to wow everyone without kneading, proofing, or complicated steps.
• Cheesy Goodness in Every Bite: Each pull-apart piece is filled with warm, melty mozzarella—comfort food at its finest.
• Perfect for Sharing: It’s literally made for pulling apart and passing around. Whether it’s game night, Christmas Eve, or a potluck, it brings people together.
• Endlessly Customizable: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar, add pepperoni, or brush with garlic butter—make it your own and watch it disappear.
• Aromatic and Irresistible: The mix of melted butter, garlic, and herbs fills your home with that cozy, festive aroma that feels like a warm holiday hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 13 oz canned refrigerator pizza dough
• Parchment paper (for lining your baking sheet)
• 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 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

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—because nobody has time for sticky cleanup during the holidays.

Step 2: Slice and Stuff
Cut the pizza dough into 30 equal squares (roughly). Then chop your mozzarella sticks into 1-inch pieces. Place a piece of cheese in the center of each dough square and roll them into small balls, sealing the edges tightly. This is where the magic begins—you’re basically creating little cheese-filled ornaments!

Step 3: Shape Your Tree
Arrange your dough balls seam side down on the parchment-lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Make sure the balls are touching—that’s how you’ll get that beautiful pull-apart effect when it bakes.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Whisk the egg and water in a small bowl to create your egg wash. Lightly brush it over each dough ball. Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown and slightly puffed. The smell alone will have your family hovering around the oven.

Step 5: Make It Buttery and Herby
While your tree is baking, melt the butter and stir in half the parmesan cheese, along with your grated garlic, parsley, rosemary, and basil. Once your bread is out of the oven, brush the herb butter generously over the warm rolls and sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top. It’s the kind of golden, fragrant finish that feels like Christmas morning.

Step 6: Serve and Celebrate
Serve right away with marinara and/or pesto for dipping. Watch as everyone tears off cheesy, garlicky bites while oohing and aahing over how cute it looks.

Mounia’s Tips for Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

• Seal those dough balls well! If you don’t, the cheese might sneak out during baking (still delicious, just messier!).
• Make ahead: You can assemble the dough balls and shape the tree a few hours in advance. Just refrigerate it until ready to bake.
• Switch up the cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to mix in cheddar or pepper jack for a fun flavor twist.
• Add festive flair: Sprinkle a few red pepper flakes or tiny bits of chopped roasted red peppers for a “decorated” look.

A Personal Note from Mounia

I made this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread one Christmas Eve when I was juggling last-minute gift wrapping, a crowded kitchen, and a very hungry family. I needed something quick, comforting, and festive—and this recipe totally saved the day. It’s now a family favorite, and the kids love helping shape the dough balls into the tree (and sneaking cheese along the way).

FAQs About Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Bring the Holiday Magic to Your Table

This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a memory waiting to happen. It’s that warm, buttery bite that brings everyone to the table, the aroma that makes your home feel extra cozy, and the little spark of joy that reminds you why you love the season. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to make something deliciously merry!

More Festive Recipes to Try This Season

If you loved making this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, you’ll adore these other holiday-ready recipes that bring the same cozy, crowd-pleasing magic to your table:

• Pair your bread with a warm mug of Crockpot Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate—rich, creamy, and made for sipping by the fire.
• Add a sweet twist to your dessert table with Christmas Crack, the irresistible toffee treat everyone fights over.
• For a savory main course that feels just as indulgent, try the Cranberry Brie Stuffed Chicken—it’s festive, flavorful, and perfect for Christmas dinner.
• Round out your feast with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans for a side dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Each of these recipes pairs beautifully with your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread, turning your holiday spread into a warm, comforting celebration everyone will remember.

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