Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

This cheesy Christmas tree bread pulls together festive fun and deliciousness in one easy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Soft dough pockets filled with gooey cheese and Italian flavors come together in an eye-catching tree shape that invites everyone to pull apart warm, melty bites. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes entertaining feel effortless and joyful.

I first made this recipe at a last-minute holiday party and was amazed how fast it disappeared. It became an instant favorite with my friends and family who still ask for it every season.

Gather Your Ingredients

• One tube refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheet: easy base, choose a quality brand for fluffier texture
• Four ounces cream cheese, softened: adds creamy richness that balances the mozzarella
• One and one-half cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy pull
• Half teaspoon garlic powder: brings gentle savory warmth
• Half teaspoon Italian seasoning: introduces classic herbs like oregano and basil for depth
• One egg, beaten: for brushing over the dough to create a golden, shiny crust
• Fresh chopped parsley optional: adds a pop of green color and freshness if desired
• Grated parmesan cheese optional: sprinkle for a salty finish and extra flavor boost
• Marinara or pizza sauce: ideal for dipping and complementing the cheesy pockets

How to Make It

Preheat the oven:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.

Cut the dough:

Unroll the pizza dough gently onto a clean surface, then cut it into 32 equal squares ensuring uniform size so the cheese is evenly portioned.

Make the filling:

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until all ingredients are fully blended into a flavorful cheese filling.

Fill the dough squares:

Spoon about one teaspoon of the cheese mixture into the center of each dough square creating little mounds that will become the centers of the cheesy-filled bites.

Fold the dough:

Carefully fold each corner of the dough square towards the center and pinch the edges together tightly to seal in the cheese, forming each piece into a neat little ball.

Arrange on baking sheet:

Arrange the dough balls on your parchment-lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Start with one ball at the top, then build wider rows below to mimic a tree’s triangular outline.

Brush with egg:

Brush the beaten egg over the surface of each dough ball to encourage browning and give the bread a beautiful, appetizing sheen once baked.

Bake:

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the dough is puffed and golden brown, signaling the cheese inside has melted perfectly.

Optional toppings:

Optional toppings include sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and grated parmesan cheese over the hot bread to add color and a burst of complementary flavor.

Serve:

Serve these cheesy bread bites warm alongside your favorite marinara or pizza dipping sauce, inviting everyone to pull apart the bread and enjoy the melty goodness.

Mozzarella cheese is my favorite part of this recipe because of its stretchy melt and mild taste that blends perfectly with cream cheese and herbs. One holiday, my kids helped arrange the dough balls in a tree shape. It became a joyful decorating tradition that made the appetizer even more special.

Flavor Boosters

Storage Tips Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate up to four days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness and melty cheese texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough chewy. Ingredient Substitutions Use crescent dough if pizza dough is unavailable the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still delicious. Substitute cream cheese with ricotta for a lighter filling or add shredded cheddar for a sharper taste. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this cheesy tree bread with a spicy marinara sauce or garlic butter dip for variety. It also makes a great side for tomato soup or a holiday charcuterie spread with cured meats and olives.

Creative Twists

Pull-apart breads have roots in communal eating traditions, encouraging sharing and conversation. This Christmas tree version adds a festive holiday twist, combining Italian-inspired ingredients like mozzarella and herbs with American holiday cheer. Try adding finely chopped cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the cheese filling for a winter vegetable boost. For a festive touch, sprinkle red pepper flakes to mimic bright ornaments or use green pesto as a dipping sauce for a different herbal flavor.

This cheesy Christmas tree bread is a festive and easy appetizer that impresses effortlessly. Enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness with your loved ones this holiday season.

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ What type of dough is best for this bread?

Refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough works perfectly, offering a soft and pillowy texture once baked.

→ Can I use different cheeses in the filling?

Absolutely! Mozzarella and cream cheese create a creamy filling, but you can add or substitute cheeses like cheddar or provolone for varied flavors.

→ How do I shape the bread into a Christmas tree?

Arrange the filled dough balls seam-side down on a baking sheet in the triangular shape of a Christmas tree before baking.

→ Is it possible to prepare the dough balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filled dough balls hours ahead and bake just before serving to ensure freshness and warm serving temperature.

→ What dipping sauce pairs well with this bread?

Marinara or pizza sauce complements the cheesy flavors perfectly, adding a tangy contrast to the rich bread.