Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 16 mins | Servings: 15
Christmas is just around the corner. My kids are already super excited because this year we will be celebrating it with the whole family! I will surprise everyone with this delicious, warm pull apart cheesy Christmas tree bread that is filled with herby garlic butter and tons of cheese! For the perfect appetizer, I will serve this with marinara or pesto for dipping.
Ingredients
1 clove garlic, grated
13 oz. canned refrigerator pizza dough
6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
3 tbsp butter, melted
½ c. grated Parmesan cheese divided
½ tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
1 jar marinara and/or pesto for dipping
1 large egg plus 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash
parchment paper for lining a baking sheet
How to make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
Step 1: Prepare the oven. Preheat it to 400 degrees. Using parchment paper, line a baking sheet.
Step 2: Into about 30 equal squares, cut the dough. Into 30 bite-sized pieces, slice the mozzarella cheese sticks.
Step 3: To each square of dough, add 1 piece of mozzarella. Shape it onto a ball, smoothing the edges using your hands, then seal the edges.
Step 4: On the prepared baking sheet, place the balls, seam-side down. Form them in the shape of a tree (the balls should be touching). In a small bowl, whisk the egg and water. With the egg wash, lightly brush each ball.
Step 5: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 16 to 18 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: In the meantime, melt the butter in the microwave. Once melted, whisk in half of the Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, and herbs until well blended.
Step 7: Brush the rolls with the melted butter mixture and sprinkle with the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
Step 8: Serve the cheesy Christmas tree bread immediately with pesto or marinara for dipping. Enjoy!