Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe for the Holidays

The holidays are a time for family, joy, and delicious food! This festive season, let’s add a touch of whimsy to your dinner table with an Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread that’s not only delightful to look at but also scrumptiously cheesy. Imagine pulling apart warm, gooey, and flavorful pieces of bread, each shaped like a sparkling Christmas tree. This cheesy Christmas tree bread is sure to impress your guests and spread holiday cheer, making it one of the best Christmas bread recipes you can whip up this year!

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

– Ingredients:
– 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or spinach for a unique twist)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Olive oil (for brushing)
– Sea salt (to taste)

– Kitchen Tools:
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Rolling pin
– Mixing bowl
– Brush for egg wash
– Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches in size.

3. Layer the Ingredients: Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Then, add the Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, and oregano. Finally, sprinkle over the remaining mozzarella cheese.

4. Shape the Christmas Tree: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into a tree shape. Start at the base with wide branches and taper up towards the top. You can also create small triangles for ornaments by cutting out pieces of excess dough.

5. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully transfer your cheesy tree shape onto the prepared baking sheet.

6. Egg Wash: Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg. Drizzle some olive oil over the top, and sprinkle with sea salt for added flavor.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

8. Serve Warm: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy pulling apart the cheesy pieces!

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

This cheesy Christmas tree bread incorporates cheese and fresh herbs, providing a good source of calcium and protein. The bread also offers flavors and textures that make it an exciting appetizer or side dish for your holiday meals.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a twist.
– Herb Variations: Substitute parsley with other herbs such as rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
– Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara or garlic butter for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the bread to prevent it from becoming too dry.
– Dough Thickness: Ensure the dough isn’t rolled too thin as it may affect the bread’s texture.
– Skipping Egg Wash: This gives your bread a beautiful, shiny finish, so don’t skip it!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion with Call-to-Action

This Easy Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful addition to your holiday spread and can become a new tradition in your home. Try this recipe out and watch it quickly become a favorite among family and friends. Don’t forget to share your cheesy creations on social media and tag us!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked dough for up to two months. Just thaw, shape, and bake as directed.

2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply eliminate any meat products and focus on the delicious cheeses and herbs.

3. How can I make this gluten-free?
Swap out the pizza dough for a gluten-free pizza dough option available at many grocery stores.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and layer the fillings ahead of time; just bake it fresh right before serving!