Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer is the kind of festive recipe that instantly makes the holidays feel warmer and more joyful. In the first bite, you get soft baked dough, gooey melted cheese, and buttery garlic herbs, all shaped into an adorable Christmas tree that doubles as a pull-apart bread everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer
This recipe is perfect for busy holiday seasons when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It uses simple ingredients, most of them store-bought, and comes together quickly. The Christmas tree shape makes it fun for kids and adults, and the pull-apart style means no knives or plates are really needed.
Another reason this appetizer stands out is how flexible it is. You can switch up the cheeses, add herbs you already have, or pair it with different dipping sauces. It works just as well for Christmas Eve, holiday parties, school gatherings, or even a cozy family movie night.
Ingredients for Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer
Dough and Filling
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough, about 13 ounces
- 6 to 7 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Garlic Herb Butter Topping
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
- 1 half cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, finely chopped
For Serving
- Marinara sauce, pizza sauce, or pesto for dipping
Ingredient Notes
Refrigerated pizza dough keeps this recipe fast and beginner friendly. If you prefer, you can use homemade pizza dough, but be sure it is rolled thin enough to wrap easily around the cheese.
Mozzarella string cheese melts beautifully and gives you that classic cheese pull. If you need an alternative, low moisture shredded mozzarella formed into small bundles works well. Mild cheddar or a mozzarella and provolone blend are also good options.
If fresh herbs are not available, you can substitute dried herbs. Use about one third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Unroll the pizza dough onto a clean surface. Using a knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into about 30 small squares. Try to keep them as even as possible so they bake at the same rate.
Step 3: Cut the Cheese
Cut each mozzarella string cheese stick into about 4 to 5 equal pieces. You want each piece to fit comfortably inside a dough square without stretching it too much.
Step 4: Form the Dough Balls
Place one piece of cheese in the center of each dough square. Gently wrap the dough around the cheese, pinching the seams tightly to seal. Roll lightly in your hands to form a smooth ball. Place each ball seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Shape the Christmas Tree
Arrange the dough balls into the shape of a Christmas tree. Start with a single ball at the top, then create wider rows as you move down, finishing with a short trunk at the bottom. The dough balls should be touching so they bake together into a pull apart bread.
Step 6: Egg Wash
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush the egg wash lightly over the tops of the dough balls. This helps them bake up golden and shiny.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the bread is puffed and golden brown.
Step 8: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
While the bread is baking, melt the butter in a small bowl. Stir in the garlic, half of the Parmesan cheese, parsley, rosemary, and basil.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush generously with the garlic herb butter. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve warm with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
- Seal the dough tightly around the cheese to prevent leaking while baking.
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Leave a little space around the tree for even browning.
- Brush the garlic butter on while the bread is hot so it soaks in better.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil for the last few minutes.
- Serve immediately for the best cheese pull.
Flavor Variations
- Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the butter for extra flavor.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a sharper taste.
- Swap marinara for ranch or garlic dip for a different serving style.
- Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking for a savory twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer looks great as the centerpiece of a holiday appetizer table. Pair it with veggie trays, meat free finger foods, and festive drinks. It also works well alongside soup or salad for a simple meal.
For parties, place small bowls of dipping sauce around the tree so guests can grab and dip easily.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through.
Freezing is not recommended for best texture, as the cheese filling can become grainy once reheated.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
FAQ About Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the dough balls and shape the tree a few hours ahead. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best results.
What if I do not have string cheese?
You can use small cubes of block mozzarella or a tightly packed spoonful of shredded cheese. Make sure it is well sealed inside the dough.
Can kids help make this recipe?
Yes, this is a great recipe for kids to help with. They can place cheese in the dough and help arrange the tree shape with supervision.
How do I keep the bread warm for a party?
Place the baked bread in a warm oven set to the lowest temperature. Cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
Can I use gluten-free dough?
If you have a gluten-free pizza dough that bakes well, it should work. Follow the package instructions for temperature and timing.
Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer
Equipment
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- knife or pizza cutter
- small bowl
- pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 13 ounces)
- 6–7 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh basil, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll pizza dough and cut into about 30 evenly sized squares.
- Cut each mozzarella stick into 4–5 pieces.
- Place one piece of cheese in each dough square, wrap and seal tightly, then roll into a ball.
- Arrange dough balls seam-side down into a Christmas tree shape on the baking sheet.
- Whisk egg and water together and brush lightly over the dough balls.
- Bake for 16–18 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
- Mix melted butter with garlic, half of the Parmesan, parsley, rosemary, and basil.
- Brush hot bread with garlic butter and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan. Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Appetizer is festive, fun, and incredibly simple to make. It brings together classic comfort flavors in a playful holiday shape that everyone enjoys. Whether you are hosting a party or just want something special for family night, this recipe is guaranteed to disappear fast.
