Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and tasty holiday treat that brings joy to any festive gathering. Its charming tree shape and gooey, cheesy filling make it a crowd-pleaser. This dish is easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether served as an appetizer or a fun side dish, it’s sure to impress your guests and add a bit of holiday spirit to your table.
How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent dough sheet)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Marinara or pizza sauce (for dipping)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until combined.
- Unroll the pizza dough and cut into 32 equal squares.
- Place about 1 tsp of cheese filling in the center of each square.
- Fold each dough square around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
- Arrange the balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Optionally, sprinkle with parsley and parmesan before serving. Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Serve the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread warm for the best flavor and texture. It pairs well with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping, adding a nice touch of flavor. You can place the bread on a festive platter for a beautiful presentation at your holiday party.
How to Store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help retain their crispy texture.
Tips to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t overfill the dough squares with the cheese mixture to prevent spills.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to add color and flavor.
- You can experiment with different cheese types, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique taste.
Variation
For a different flavor, try adding cooked sausage, spinach, or various spices to the cheese mixture. You can also shape the bread into different holiday figures, like stars or snowflakes, for more festive fun.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes! You can use crescent dough or any store-bought pizza dough for this recipe.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Assemble the bread and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
How do I make it gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pizza dough to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread this holiday season!
Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients
Dough and Cheese Filling
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent dough sheet)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 large egg, beaten For egg wash
- to taste Fresh chopped parsley Optional, for garnish.
- to taste Grated parmesan cheese Optional.
- as needed Marinara or pizza sauce For dipping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until combined.
- Unroll the pizza dough and cut into 32 equal squares.
- Place about 1 teaspoon of cheese filling in the center of each square.
- Fold each dough square around the filling and pinch to seal, forming a ball.
- Arrange the balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
- Brush with beaten egg and bake for 16-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving
- Optionally, sprinkle with parsley and parmesan before serving. Serve warm with marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
