Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Warm, buttery pull-apart bread filled with gooey mozzarella cheese, topped with herby garlic butter, and sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. This festive appetizer or side dish is quick and easy to make using refrigerated pizza dough!
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 13 oz can of refrigerated pizza dough
- 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks cut into 30 bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch each)
- 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 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
For Serving:
- 1 jar marinara sauce or pesto for dipping
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cut the pizza dough into 30 evenly sized squares.
Assemble the Dough Balls
- Place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center of each dough square.
- Wrap the dough around the cheese, pinching the edges to seal, and roll into a smooth ball.
Shape the Christmas Tree
- Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Ensure the balls are lightly touching to form a cohesive structure.
Apply the Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash lightly over each dough ball to help them bake to a golden brown.
Bake the Bread
- Bake the dough balls in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
- While the bread bakes, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese, along with the grated garlic, parsley, rosemary, and basil.
Add the Finishing Touches
- Once the bread is out of the oven, immediately brush the garlic butter mixture over the rolls. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping.