Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Name: Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast; 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 egg; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup marinara sauce for dipping

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Get into the festive spirit with this delicious Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread! Perfect for holiday gatherings, this fun and interactive appetizer features warm, gooey cheese stuffed between fluffy, herb-infused dough. Shaped like a Christmas tree, it’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. Serve it with marinara sauce for a delightful dipping experience that will have your guests coming back for more.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T04:34:13.073Z

This Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread not only brings cheer to your festive table but also tantalizes your taste buds. Its unique shape and flavor make it the perfect dish for sharing.

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is an innovative twist on traditional holiday fare. With its attractive, tree-shaped presentation, this delightful bread quickly becomes the star of any festive gathering. Guests will be drawn to its warm, inviting aroma and the promise of gooey cheese contained within each fluffy piece. Whether served as an appetizer or a side dish, this bread is sure to impress.

Not only does this recipe deliver on flavor, but it also encourages interactive dining. As everyone pulls apart a piece, laughter and conversation naturally flow, making it the perfect addition to holiday parties. It encourages guests to gather around the table and partake in a communal dish, fostering a sense of togetherness and celebration.

Ingredients Make the Difference

The beauty of this Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. All-purpose flour forms the perfect base for a soft, airy texture that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of cheese. The addition of dried herbs elevates the dough, infusing it with a lovely aroma that complements the melted cheese filling.

Using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses not only adds depth of flavor but also creates an irresistible gooiness. Each bite offers a delightful stretch that makes for a satisfying experience. Don't forget the marinara sauce for dipping, which adds a tangy contrast and enhances the overall taste experience.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, ensure your yeast is fresh to guarantee that your dough rises perfectly. If you're unsure about your yeast, simply dissolve it in warm milk with sugar before moving forward with the recipe. This simple test will confirm its viability as it becomes foamy.

When shaping the bread, don't worry about perfection. Each piece can vary in size, adding to the homemade charm. Use a sharp knife or cookie cutter to create decorative shapes that will enhance your tree’s appearance. Ensure even spacing between the cheese layers for a delightful cheesy pull when served.

Ingredients

Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup melted butter
1 egg
1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder

Filling

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup marinara sauce for dipping

Make sure to prepare all ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, oregano, and garlic powder.

Add melted butter and egg, then pour in the yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Shape the Bread

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut it into star shapes. Layer cheese between the pieces, arranging them to form a Christmas tree shape.

Bake

Transfer the shaped bread to a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Once baked, the bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm!

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread shines on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider offering a side of marinara or pesto for dipping, as they bring additional flavors that complement the cheese and herbs. Alternatively, serve it alongside a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup for a complete meal.

For a festive touch, garnish your bread with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the aromatic experience of the dish, inviting your guests to indulge in its flavors even before the first bite.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, storing them correctly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To reheat the bread, wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This way, the bread will regain its warm, gooey center without losing its fluffy texture, ready to be enjoyed once again.

Customizations and Variations

This Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is highly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavor profiles. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. Alternatively, incorporate cooked and crumbled sausage or finely chopped spinach for a heartier filling that makes the dish even more satisfying.

You can also switch up the herbs based on your preference. Basil, thyme, or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning can transform the flavor of your dough. Don't hesitate to get creative and make it your own—after all, the festive season is the perfect time to try new culinary ideas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

It pairs well with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or pesto.