There’s something magical about the holiday season—the warmth, the joy, and, of course, the delicious food. If you’re looking for a festive centerpiece to impress your guests this Christmas, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is just the thing. Shaped like a Christmas tree, this pull-apart bread is stuffed with gooey cheese, and garlic butter, and topped with fresh herbs. It’s not only delicious but also brings a touch of holiday charm to your table.
This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday party or having an intimate family gathering, this cheesy bread will be the talk of the evening.
Ingredients for Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious holiday treat:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp dried oregano
For the Topping:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)
- Cherry tomatoes (optional for decoration)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
This recipe comes together in a few simple steps, transforming ordinary dough into an extraordinary, festive bread loaf.
1. Preparing the Dough
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water with the active dry yeast and 1 tsp of sugar. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.
While the yeast is activating, whisk together the flour and salt in a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and pour in the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until the dough begins to come together.
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 7-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. Once kneaded, place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling
While your dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the delicious cheese filling. In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese (if using), minced garlic, melted butter, and chopped parsley. The mix should be flavorful and aromatic, with the garlic and parsley giving it a wonderful kick. Set it aside.
3. Shaping the Christmas Tree
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into small portions (around the size of a golf ball). Each dough ball will be rolled out and stuffed with cheese filling.
Roll out each dough ball into a small circle. Place about a teaspoon of the cheese mixture in the center and fold the dough over, pinching the edges together to seal. You should end up with a small, filled dough ball.
Repeat this process for the rest of the dough. Now, it’s time to arrange them in the shape of a Christmas tree! Starting at the base, line the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, creating a triangular tree shape with layers. Leave a small gap between each ball to allow room for expansion during baking.
4. Baking the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Before baking, brush the arranged dough balls with olive oil and sprinkle some dried oregano for extra flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese begins to ooze from the edges.
Once baked, remove from the oven and immediately brush with more melted butter. For a festive touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and decorate with fresh rosemary sprigs. If you want to add extra holiday flair, place cherry tomatoes sporadically around the bread to resemble Christmas ornaments.
5. Serving Suggestions
Your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is best served warm while the cheese is still gooey and soft. Pull apart each piece to reveal the cheesy, garlicky goodness inside.
Pair it with a simple marinara dipping sauce for added flavor, or serve alongside a festive charcuterie board for a holiday spread that’s sure to wow.
Tips for Success
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough and shape the tree the night before. Store it in the refrigerator overnight, and bake fresh the next day. This way, you can save time during busy holiday preparations.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyère, fontina, or even blue cheese can add a new flavor dimension to the filling.
- Herb Butter: For an added layer of flavor, mix more herbs like thyme or basil into the melted butter for brushing after baking.
Why Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is Perfect for the Holidays
This bread is more than just a pretty centerpiece. It’s the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough and gooey cheese, with a garlicky kick that will make you reach for seconds. The tree shape adds an element of fun, making it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a festive recipe that looks difficult but is actually easy to make, ensuring your holiday gatherings are both stress-free and delicious.
Not only does it serve as an appetizer or side dish, but it also doubles as an interactive experience. Guests can pull apart the bread themselves, sharing the joy of homemade holiday baking.
So, whether you’re hosting a Christmas Eve dinner or simply want to bake something special for your family, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is guaranteed to bring festive cheer to your table.