Can I make Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dough and cheese balls into the tree shape and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next day. You can also freeze the unbaked tree and bake it from frozen.

What cheese works best for stuffing the bread?

Mozzarella is classic due to its excellent melting quality, but cheddar, gouda, and brie can be used for different flavor profiles. Mix and match to suit your taste.

Can I use store-bought dough?

Absolutely. Pre-made pizza dough or crescent roll dough works perfectly and saves time during the busy holiday season.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Use low-moisture cheese and bake on a parchment-lined metal tray. Let the bread rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow steam to escape.

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread: 1 Ultimate Holiday Appetizer

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 lb pizza dough
24 small mozzarella cubes
3 tbsp melted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp parsley, chopped
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Salt to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheet with parchment.
Divide dough into 24 pieces. Flatten each and wrap around a mozzarella cube.
Arrange in tree shape on tray: 1-2-3-4-5-6 with 2 for the trunk.
Mix garlic with melted butter. Brush over dough balls.
Sprinkle with Parmesan and salt.
Bake for 18–22 mins until golden. Rest 5 mins before serving.

Notes

Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent sogginess.
Make-ahead by assembling the tree and refrigerating overnight.
Freeze unbaked and bake directly with extra time.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/8 tree
Calories: 210
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 330mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 25mg