Hey friends!
The holiday season is here, and I’ve got a super fun recipe for you!
Today, I’m all about the Christmas tree bread stuffed with cheese.
This festive twist is not only delicious but also a showstopper at any holiday gathering.
Imagine pulling apart warm, cheesy goodness from a beautiful tree-shaped loaf!
It’s easy to make, and your guests will be so impressed.
Let’s get into the festive spirit and start baking!
| Preparation Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 16-18 minutes |
| Total Time | 36-48 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Ingredients
For the tree bread:
- 13 oz pizza dough (refrigerated for convenience)
- 6 to 7 mozzarella string cheese sticks (pulled apart to stuff the dough)
For the egg wash:
- 1 tbsp water (for a golden crust)
- 1 large egg
For the herb butter topping:
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
- 3 tbsp melted butter (I like Kerrygold unsalted butter for this)
- 1/2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 grated garlic clove (freshly minced for best aroma)
- 1/2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For serving:
- 1 jar marinara or pesto sauce (for dipping)
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the dough from sticking.
Cut the dough into 30 approximately equal squares and also cut the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized (1 inch) pieces.
Set both aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Cheese Balls
Take each square of dough and place a piece of mozzarella in the center.
Fold the dough around the cheese, forming a ball, and roll it with your hands to smooth and seal the edges.
Repeat until all the dough squares are filled with cheese and formed into balls.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet and Apply Egg Wash
Place the balls seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a tree (refer to photos for arrangement ideas), ensuring the balls are touching each other.
In a small bowl, blend the egg and water together to create an egg wash.
Lightly brush each ball with the egg wash to promote browning during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Cheese Balls
Bake the cheese balls in the preheated oven for 16-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
While the bread is baking, microwave the butter until melted.
Stir in half of the Parmesan cheese, all of the grated garlic, and herbs into the melted butter.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the cheese balls are baked and golden brown, remove them from the oven.
Immediately brush the hot rolls with the melted butter mixture, ensuring each roll is coated generously.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top.
Serve right away with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy bread balls!
