Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Y’all, Christmas is just around the corner, and my kitchen is already smelling like cinnamon, sugar, and a whole lotta cheese! This year, I wanted to create something that was both festive and easy to throw together for the kiddos – and that’s how this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread was born. I’ve made this fluffy, cheesy tree three times in my kitchen just to make sure it’s perfect for y’all! The look on my kids’ faces when I pull it out of the oven makes my heart so happy.

If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and stress-free appetizer (or even a light meal!), then look no further. This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is guaranteed to be a hit at your holiday gathering, and it’s a project the kids can even help with! I promise, it will bring a little extra Christmas cheer to your table.

Why This Recipe Works

Being a busy mama of two in Texas means I need recipes that are quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser. This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread ticks all the boxes! Here’s why it works so well:

• Kid-Friendly: The fun shape and cheesy flavor make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. My little ones love helping me twist the breadsticks into the tree shape.
• Quick & Easy: Using store-bought pizza dough cuts down on prep time, so you can have this festive treat on the table in under an hour.
• Perfect for Sharing: This bread is designed for gatherings. It’s easy to pull apart and share, making it ideal for potlucks or Christmas parties.

Ingredients

• 1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley sprigs, for garnish
• Cherry tomatoes, halved, for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Pizza Dough: I prefer using the classic refrigerated pizza dough for its convenience and consistent results. However, you could also use homemade pizza dough if you have the time! Just make sure it’s not too sticky.

Cheese: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, savory flavor that’s irresistible. You can experiment with other cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, but I find this blend works best.

Garlic Powder & Italian Herbs: These add a subtle savory note to the bread. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking or add other seasonings, like onion powder or dried oregano.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Dough. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet. Unroll the pizza dough on a clean surface and gently stretch it into a rectangular shape, about 12×16 inches.

Step 2: Spread the Cheese. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 3: Cut and Twist. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into long strips, about 1 inch wide. Gently twist each strip a few times to create a spiral shape.

Step 4: Assemble the Tree. Arrange the twisted dough strips on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree. Start with the longest strip at the bottom and gradually shorten the strips as you move up to form the triangular tree shape. Don’t worry about perfection – a little irregularity adds to the rustic charm! I leave about an inch between each row to allow the bread to expand as it bakes.

Step 5: Brush with Butter & Bake. In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Brush the melted butter mixture evenly over the Christmas tree bread. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve. Remove the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and halved cherry tomatoes to resemble Christmas ornaments. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the bread while it’s baking to prevent it from getting too brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.
• Get the Kids Involved: This recipe is a great opportunity to get the kids in the kitchen. Let them help spread the cheese, twist the dough strips, and arrange them into the tree shape.
• Customize the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a tangy twist.
• Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or sprinkle them on top before baking.
• Make it a Meal: Serve this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or pair it with a simple salad for a light lunch or dinner.
• Herb Variations: I’ve used fresh rosemary instead of Italian herbs. It adds a beautiful aroma and festive touch.

Storage & Meal Prep

Storage: Leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick and easy snack. I like to add a tiny pat of butter to the crust before reheating to keep it soft.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cheese mixture and cut the dough into strips ahead of time. Store the cheese mixture in the refrigerator and keep the dough strips covered to prevent them from drying out. Assemble the tree just before baking.

Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe gluten-free. I’ve seen some good options at specialty stores, but haven’t tried it myself yet.

Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese to make this recipe dairy-free.

Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian! Feel free to add some chopped veggies to the cheese mixture, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. A sprinkle of black olives adds a nice touch, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and cut the dough into strips a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the tree just before baking. This is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple holiday dishes!

How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach around 200°F (93°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the crust is nicely browned.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, provolone, or even a sprinkle of feta would all be delicious. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! The fun shape and cheesy flavor make it a hit with kids of all ages. Plus, it’s a great activity to get them involved in the kitchen.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this bread?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the bread might change slightly. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw it completely before reheating in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is delicious on its own as an appetizer or snack, but it also pairs well with:

• Marinara sauce for dipping
• A simple green salad
• A bowl of warm soup

For a festive touch, arrange the bread on a platter and garnish with extra parsley sprigs and cherry tomatoes. You can also add a small star-shaped cheese cut-out at the top of the tree for an extra special touch.

Y’all, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring a little extra joy and togetherness to your holiday celebrations. It’s simple enough for a weeknight treat but special enough for a Christmas gathering. I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as mine does! I can’t wait to hear what you think – be sure to share your creations and any fun variations you try in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes, be sure to sign up for my newsletter at FamiliesRecipes.com!

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