Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Delight

 

Description

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a festive and delicious centerpiece that combines soft, fluffy bread with gooey mozzarella cheese. Shaped like a Christmas tree and brushed with a flavorful herb-butter and Parmesan topping, this bread is perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or cozy family snacking. Each piece pulls apart easily, making it fun to share and enjoy warm with your favorite dips.

Time & Servings

• Prep Time: ~30 minutes

• First Rise/Proofing: ~2 hours 30 minutes

• Bake Time: ~20 minutes

• Total Time: ~3 hours 20 minutes

• Servings: ~15 pieces

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 3 cups bread flour

• 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 cup milk or warm water

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)

For the Cheese Filling

• ~8½ oz mozzarella (cubed or cut string cheese)

For Finishing

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)

• ¼ cup melted unsalted butter

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• Optional: red pepper flakes

• Optional: marinara or other dipping sauces

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine bread flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk (or water) and mix until a rough dough forms. Let rest ~10 minutes, then knead on a floured surface for about 10–15 minutes until smooth and elastic.

2. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Prep Cheese:
   Cut the mozzarella into small cubes or pieces.

4. Portion Dough:
   Punch down the risen dough and divide into ~19–20 g balls. Let them rest about 10 minutes to relax.

5. Shape the Tree:
   Stuff each dough ball with a piece of cheese and seal gently. Arrange the filled balls on parchment paper in a Christmas tree shape on a baking sheet.

6. Second Rise:
   Cover and let the shaped tree rise for about 1 hour. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to about 425°F (218°C).

7. Egg Wash:
   Whisk the egg with water and brush over the dough tree for a golden finish.

8. Bake:
   Bake for about 20 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

9. Add Herb Butter & Toppings:
   Mix the melted butter with chopped basil, parsley, and rosemary. Brush over the warm bread and sprinkle with Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if desired.

10. Serve:
    Serve warm, ideally with marinara or your favorite dipping sauces.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping

• Pair with garlic butter or ranch

• Add a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal

Tips & Variations

• Cheese Variations: Mix mozzarella with cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack

• Herb Twist: Use Italian seasoning or thyme instead of fresh herbs

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for extra warmth

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour mix and adjust liquids as needed

• Make Ahead: Assemble ahead and refrigerate before baking

Storage

• Keep at room temperature in an airtight container up to 1–2 days

• Freeze individual pieces up to 3 months and reheat in oven

Conclusion

Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a festive, flavorful, and shareable treat perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy get-togethers. With soft dough, melted cheese, and a savory herb finish, it’s a fun and delicious centerpiece that everyone will enjoy pulling apart and savoring warm.