Name: Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound prepared pizza dough; 8 mozzarella cheese sticks; 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup marinara sauce

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 82 reviews

There’s something incredibly magical about gathering around the table to share a festive treat, and this Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe is guaranteed to become your new holiday favorite. Imagine soft, golden-brown dough balls bursting with warm, gooey mozzarella cheese, lightly seasoned with Italian herbs, and shaped into a whimsical tree that invites everyone to grab a tasty bite. This fun and interactive bread is not only a feast for the eyes but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that instantly lifts your spirits. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a cozy family snack, this recipe is easy, crowd-pleasing, and simply unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A woman's hand holds a small, round dough ball that is light beige in color, with a slightly rough and flour-dusted surface showing soft creases and uneven texture. The small dough sits gently in the palm, with the fingers carefully wrapped around it, all against a white marbled background with soft, natural light highlighting the delicate details of the hand and dough. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive appearance. From the stretchy mozzarella that melts to creamy perfection, to the fresh parsley and parmesan that add a bright, savory note on top, these components come together to make something truly special.

1 pound prepared pizza dough: Provides a soft, chewy base that’s perfect for pulling apart.
8 mozzarella cheese sticks: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they give that irresistible cheesy center everyone loves.
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that adds warmth and holiday spirit.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a subtle punch of savory flavor to enhance every bite.
1 large egg: Used to make an egg wash that gives the bread a beautiful golden finish.
1 tablespoon water: Mixed with egg to help the wash coat the rolls evenly.
2 tablespoons butter (melted): Brushed on top for rich flavor and a shiny, inviting look.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (finely chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a sharp, nutty finish.
1 cup marinara sauce (for serving): Perfect for dipping those gooey, cheesy bites into a tangy companion.

How to Make Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dough

Start by heating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, let your prepared pizza dough rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This step ensures the dough is soft and pliable, making it much easier to work with and guaranteeing those tender bread balls you’re aiming for.

Step 2: Cut Cheese and Dough

Take those mozzarella cheese sticks and cut each one into 4 pieces—this gives you 32 small, melty cheese bites. Next, roll out your dough and cut it into 32 equal squares so each piece gets a generous cheese center. This precise cutting helps maintain an even ratio of dough to cheese throughout the bread.

Step 3: Assemble the Bread Balls

Place one mozzarella piece right on top of each dough square. Sprinkle each with Italian seasoning and garlic powder to add depth of flavor. Then, fold the edges of the dough up and over the cheese, pinching them tightly in the center. Roll the sealed dough balls gently in your hands to smooth them out and make sure no cheese escapes during baking.

Step 4: Arrange into a Christmas Tree

Place the dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet. Shape them carefully into a Christmas tree form, complete with a little trunk at the bottom. You will have three extra balls—bake these on the side to enjoy as bonus treats! This step adds a festive touch that makes your bread perfect for the holidays.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk the egg and water together, then brush this egg wash generously over each dough ball. This creates an irresistible golden crust as the bread bakes. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes, until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese inside is melted to perfection.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

When the baking is done, brush the melted butter over the entire tree for added richness and gloss. Then sprinkle the fresh parsley and parmesan cheese on top for color, flavor, and a little extra festive flair. Serve the bread warm, alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping—this little touch makes every pull-apart bite even more delicious.

How to Serve Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe

A wooden tray holds a Christmas tree shape made of 28 small golden-brown dough balls, each topped lightly with melted white cheese and green parsley flakes. The dough balls are tightly packed in a triangular form with five layers, starting with one ball at the top, growing to seven at the base. A round white bowl filled with bright red marinara sauce sits at the top right corner of the tray. Some scattered cheese and parsley bits decorate the tray around the dough balls, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some extra parmesan cheese or finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano on top right before serving. For a sweeter twist, try a light drizzle of honey and some crushed red pepper for contrast. Adding garnishes not only elevates the dish visually but also layers on bursts of additional flavor that surprise and delight.

Side Dishes

This pull apart bread pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, or a bowl of warm soup like tomato basil or minestrone to complement the Italian-inspired taste. These sides help balance the richness of the cheesy bread and make a complete, comforting meal perfect for chilly winter days.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe on a wooden board decorated with festive touches like holly sprigs or small ornaments around the edges. You can even add colorful dipping bowls filled with marinara and ranch or garlic butter to offer a fun dipping station. These small presentation ideas turn a delicious recipe into an exciting centerpiece everyone will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover bread, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The bread maintains its soft texture and cheesy goodness, making it easy to enjoy again without much fuss.

Freezing

You can freeze the unbaked, assembled bread balls in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking steps as usual for fresh-tasting bread anytime you desire.

Reheating

To refresh leftover bread, pop it into an oven preheated to 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is soft again. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve that lovely crispy golden crust and chewy texture we all love.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works wonderfully and can add a personal touch to your Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe. Just make sure it’s well risen and soft before shaping.

What other cheeses can I use besides mozzarella?

While mozzarella is the classic choice for meltiness, feel free to experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for added flavor complexity.

Can I add other fillings to the bread balls?

Yes! Consider adding small pieces of pepperoni, cooked sausage, or even roasted vegetables inside the dough balls along with the cheese for a heartier version.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

The key is to pinch the dough tightly and roll it gently into balls to create a good seal. If needed, use a little water to slightly moisten the edges before sealing to help them stick better.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free pizza dough alternative, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly different. Just make sure the dough you pick rolls out well and holds together to maintain that pull-apart effect.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe is such a delightful way to bring joy and deliciousness to your holiday celebrations. With its irresistible cheese-filled centers, aromatic seasoning, and festive presentation, it’s not just food—it’s an experience to share with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch faces light up as everyone pulls apart those cheesy bites together. Happy baking and happy holidays!