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Cheesy Holiday Tree Bread

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.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Rising Time 10 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bread
  • 1 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 Topping
  • 1/2 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 Wash
  • 1 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

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry Brush

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into roughly 30 equal squares and slice the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes.
  3. Place a mozzarella cube in the center of each dough square and shape them into sealed balls.
  4. Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet into the shape of a Christmas tree.
  5. Whisk together one egg and a splash of water to create the egg wash. Apply it over each dough ball.
  6. Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown and puffy.
  7. Melt a few tablespoons of unsalted butter and mix it with minced garlic and fresh herbs.
  8. Brush the warm bread with the herb butter and sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  9. 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

Notes

For 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.

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