Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked bread starts to fill the air, bringing back cozy memories of family gatherings and festive cheer. Meet the Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread—a delightful pull-apart appetizer that steals the show and captures hearts (and appetites) alike. This easy-to-make dish features gooey mozzarella tucked inside warm, golden dough balls, creating a centerpiece that invites everyone to gather ’round. Not only is it quick to whip up using refrigerated dough, but it also offers the perfect crowd-pleasing treat, with options for gluten-free and vegan versions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just craving something comforting, this recipe promises to infuse joy into your table. Are you ready to spread some holiday cheer with this cheesy delight? Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Festive Appeal: This Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread is not just delicious; it looks stunning on any holiday table, drawing everyone in with its charming presentation. Easy to Make: With just refrigerated pizza dough and a few ingredients, it’s a simple recipe that even novice cooks can master. Customizable: Feel free to swap out mozzarella for cheddar or gouda, or even add sausage or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist! Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will delight in pulling apart warm, cheesy bites, making it ideal for gatherings or game day. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and bake when ready, saving you time in the kitchen. Pairs Beautifully: Serve with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping—this delightful treat will have everyone coming back for more! Want more cheesy inspiration? Try these Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or Cheesy Pretzel Bites for more festive fun! Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread Ingredients Here’s everything you need to whip up this festive delight! For the Bread • Refrigerated Pizza Dough – The base for our Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread; quick and easy to prepare. • Mozzarella Cheese – Provides that gooey, melty center; swap for cheddar or gouda for a different cheesy experience. • Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust; olive oil makes a lighter alternative. For the Topping • Parmesan Cheese – Offers a savory kick on top; can be omitted for a no-cheese variation. • Garlic (minced) – Infuses the bread with a delicious aromatic flavor; always go for fresh garlic over powdered for the best taste. • Fresh Herbs (rosemary, basil, parsley) – Imparts freshness; dried herbs work too but fresh is highly recommended! For the Egg Wash • Egg – Creates a beautiful golden top; for a vegan option, use plant-based milk instead. • Water – Mixed with the egg for that perfect wash. Now you’re ready to bring warmth and cheer to your holiday celebrations with this delightful Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures that the Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread will bake evenly and achieve that desired golden crust. As the oven warms up, grab your pizza dough and get ready for assembly. Step 2: Cut the Dough and Cheese Now, take your refrigerated pizza dough and cut it into roughly 30 equal squares, ensuring they are about 2×2 inches. While doing this, slice the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes. The goal here is to have perfectly sized pieces that will fit snugly within the dough squares, ready for a cheesy surprise! Step 3: Stuff the Dough Balls Place a mozzarella cube right in the center of each dough square. Carefully gather the edges of the dough and shape them into sealed balls, ensuring that the cheese doesn’t leak out during baking. Give each ball a gentle roll in your hands for a smooth finish. Now, you’re ready to arrange them on the baking sheet! Step 4: Shape the Tree Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet into the shape of a Christmas tree, with the point at the top and wider sections at the bottom. Place the balls seam side down to keep them secure and help create that festive appearance. Step back and admire your edible masterpiece before proceeding to the next step! Step 5: Create the Egg Wash In a small bowl, whisk together one egg and a splash of water to create a rich egg wash. This mixture will give your Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread an appetizing golden color. Use a pastry brush to gently apply the egg wash over each dough ball, giving them a beautiful sheen that will enhance their festive look. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread turns golden brown and puffy. Keep an eye on them; the irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake. When they’re ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Step 7: Prepare Herb Butter While the bread is baking, melt a few tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Mix in minced garlic, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a handful of freshly chopped herbs like rosemary and parsley. This fragrant herb butter will elevate your Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread to a whole new level of deliciousness. Step 8: Brush and Serve Once out of the oven, immediately brush the warm Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread with the prepared herb butter, ensuring each ball is coated in flavorful goodness. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top for that extra cheesy touch. Serve your festive treat warm alongside marinara or pesto for dipping, and watch as everyone gathers around to enjoy! Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread Variations Feel free to customize your Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread with these creative twists that will make your holiday gatherings even more delightful! Cheese Swap: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile. Both options offer a fantastic melt and rich taste. Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked crumbled sausage or diced pepperoni within the dough balls to bring a hearty flavor. These savory additions are sure to be a hit among meat enthusiasts! Vegan Delight: Opt for dairy-free cheese and plant-based butter for a vegan version that everyone can enjoy. It’s an inclusive twist without compromising taste! Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a friendly alternative. This version keeps all the fun while serving those with dietary restrictions. Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or dill for an aromatic flavor explosion. These herbs will add a fragrant and uplifting touch to every cheesy bite. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the herb butter for an extra zing. If you love a little heat, this variation will spice things up! Italian Twist: Fold in some diced sun-dried tomatoes along with the cheese for a burst of Mediterranean flavor, making your bread not just cute but also deliciously sophisticated. Cheesy Dipping Sauce: Create a quick cheese dip by melting cream cheese, cheddar, and some garlic together. It pairs perfectly with your Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread, elevating the warm, cheesy experience. Feel free to explore these exciting variations. And if you’re still looking for more cheesy inspiration, consider trying these Cheesy Taco Potatoes or the comforting Alfredo Garlic Bread. Your holiday spread will be unforgettable! Expert Tips for Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread Seal Carefully: Use a light touch when sealing the dough around the cheese to avoid leaks during baking. Serve Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, serve immediately when the Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread is warm and melty. Herb Choice: Opt for finely chopped fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor. Dried herbs can work, but may alter the texture slightly. Take Your Time: Allow dough balls to rise slightly before baking for a fluffier result. Don’t rush this step! Baking Perfection: Keep an eye on your bread in the oven; each oven is different. Bake until golden brown for the best crust! What to Serve with Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread As your Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread bakes to golden perfection, envision the delightful accompaniments that can elevate your holiday feast. Creamy Caesar Salad: A refreshing counterpart, this salad’s crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a delightful contrast to the warm, cheesy bread. Garlicky Green Beans: The vibrant green beans, sautéed with minced garlic, balance the richness of the bread beautifully, offering a satisfying crunch. Herbed Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these seasoned potatoes harmonize perfectly with the cheesy pull-apart bites, creating a hearty meal. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink, infused with cinnamon and cloves, complements the savory flavors of your bread while providing comforting warmth on chilly evenings. Mini Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes on a stick create a bright, flavorful appetizer to accompany your tree bread, enhancing the festive spirit. Decadent Chocolate Fondue: For dessert, dip fresh fruit or marshmallows into rich, melted chocolate, turning your gathering into a heavenly sweet finish that contrasts with the savory bread. Consider these delicious pairings to make your holiday table unforgettable and ensure everyone has a reason to celebrate the season! Storage Tips for Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and texture. Fridge: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Ensure it’s wrapped well to avoid drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread in a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its gooey cheese and soft bread texture before serving. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the dough balls and refrigerate them overnight (up to 24 hours) before baking. To maintain their delightful texture, make sure to cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap, which prevents the dough from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy this festive treat, simply remove them from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before brushing with the egg wash and baking. This way, you’ll have a warm, cheesy centerpiece ready to impress, with minimal effort during the busy holiday season! Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread Recipe FAQs What is the best type of cheese to use for Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread? Absolutely! While mozzarella is ideal for its gooey texture, you can easily substitute it with cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a unique flavor twist. Experimenting with different cheeses can add your personal touch to this festive favorite! How should I store leftover Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread? Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimum freshness. If you prefer keeping it longer, place it in the fridge where it will last for 3-4 days. Make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread? Yes, you can! To freeze, let the bread cool completely, then place it in a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it in the oven, and it will taste almost like fresh! What should I do if the cheese leaks out while baking? To prevent cheese leakage, be gentle when sealing the dough around the cheese. Make sure the edges are pinched tightly. If some do leak out, don’t worry! You can scrape off the melted cheese from the baking sheet and enjoy it as a delicious dip! Can I make Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread vegan? Very much so! To make this dish vegan, replace the mozzarella with dairy-free cheese and substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or olive oil. You can skip the egg wash or use a plant-based milk instead for the same golden finish. What herbs work best for the topping? For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or parsley. If you’re in a pinch, dried herbs can suffice, but they might slightly change the texture. Finely chop the fresh herbs to fully release their aromas, making your bread all the more delightful! Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread: Festive Delight for Any Gathering Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread is a festive pull-apart appetizer perfect for gatherings, filled with gooey cheese and golden dough. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 18 minutes minsRising Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 48 minutes mins Servings: 8 piecesCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Bread1 package Refrigerated Pizza Dough The base for our Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread; quick and easy to prepare.8 oz Mozzarella Cheese Provides that gooey, melty center; swap for cheddar or gouda for a different cheesy experience.2 tbsp Unsalted Butter Adds richness and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust; olive oil makes a lighter alternative.For the Topping1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Offers a savory kick on top; can be omitted for a no-cheese variation.2 cloves Garlic (minced) Infuses the bread with a delicious aromatic flavor; always go for fresh garlic.1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (rosemary, basil, parsley) Imparts freshness; dried herbs work too but fresh is highly recommended!For the Egg Wash1 large Egg Creates a beautiful golden top; for a vegan option, use plant-based milk instead.1 tbsp Water Mixed with the egg for that perfect wash. Equipment OvenBaking sheetParchment PaperMixing bowlPastry Brush Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into roughly 30 equal squares and slice the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes.Place a mozzarella cube in the center of each dough square and shape them into sealed balls.Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet into the shape of a Christmas tree.Whisk together one egg and a splash of water to create the egg wash. Apply it over each dough ball.Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown and puffy.Melt a few tablespoons of unsalted butter and mix it with minced garlic and fresh herbs.Brush the warm bread with the herb butter and sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.Serve warm alongside marinara or pesto for dipping. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 6gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best flavor and texture, serve immediately when the Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread is warm and melty. Use a light touch when sealing the dough around the cheese to avoid leaks during baking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
