Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

There is truly nothing like sharing a warm, pull-apart bread fresh from the oven with friends and family, and this Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe is the perfect festive centerpiece to do just that. Imagine a soft, golden crust hiding gooey mozzarella cubes inside, bursting with melty goodness in every bite, all shaped into a charming Christmas tree that’s as fun to eat as it is to look at. Herb-infused buttery flavors mingled with a hint of parmesan and served with tangy marinara create such a crave-worthy experience that it quickly becomes a beloved holiday tradition. If you want to impress everyone with a delightful, shareable treat, this recipe is an absolute must-try!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this ingredient list—each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in this festive bread. From the soft bread flour foundation to the fresh herbs that brighten every bite, these ingredients are what turn a classic dough into an unforgettable treat.

• 3 cups bread flour: The foundation for a soft, fluffy texture that holds the pull-apart shape beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast: Ensures a quick and reliable rise for that perfect lightness in the bread.
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Subtly enhances the dough’s flavor and helps with a nicely browned crust.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances flavors and elevates the overall taste of the bread.
• 1 cup milk or water: Use milk for richer flavor or water for a lighter texture; both create a tender crumb.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds tenderness and a slight richness to the dough.
• 8.5 oz mozzarella cheese (cubed or string cheese sticks): The star gooey filling that makes each bite irresistibly cheesy.
• 1 large egg: Brushed on before baking to give the bread a gorgeous golden glaze.
• 1 tablespoon water: Mixed with the egg to create the perfect egg wash for a shiny crust.
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter (melted): Brushed on after baking to keep the bread moist and flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped): Adds a bright, herbal note that awakens the palate.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): Freshens the flavor profile with a clean, earthy touch.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped): Brings a fragrant, woodsy aroma perfect for the holidays.
• 0.5 cup grated parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty finish that perfectly complements the mozzarella.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little gentle heat with their cheesy goodness.
• Marinara sauce (for dipping): A classic accompaniment that perfectly ties together the entire bread experience.

How to Make Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Dough Ingredients

Start by combining the bread flour, instant dry yeast, sugar, and kosher salt in a large bowl. Pour in warm milk or water and stir just until no dry flour remains. This initial mixing kickstarts the formation of gluten, essential for the soft yet structured texture we want. After mixing, let the dough rest for 10 minutes to hydrate the flour fully before kneading.

Step 2: Knead Until Glossy and Elastic

On a floured surface, knead your dough for 10 to 15 minutes. You’re aiming for a smooth, elastic ball that passes the windowpane test when stretched gently—this means the dough is ready and will rise beautifully, giving you that light, airy crumb perfect for pulling apart.

Step 3: First Rise to Puffy Perfection

Place your dough ball into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours until it doubles in size. This rise is crucial for developing flavor and that airy texture that makes this pull-apart bread so addictive.

Step 4: Prepare Your Cheese Filling

While the dough rises, cube your mozzarella into 30 to 33 small pieces. These cheese pockets ensure every bite is an explosion of molten, gooey delight. If using string cheese sticks, cutting them into small chunks works just as well!

Step 5: Shape the Dough Balls with Cheese Inside

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into roughly 19-20 gram balls. Cover and rest them for 10 minutes — this relaxation period makes shaping easier. Then, take each ball and gently stuff it with a cube of mozzarella, sealing the cheese inside so it won’t escape during baking.

Step 6: Arrange the Dough Balls Into a Tree Shape

Lay out the stuffed dough balls on parchment paper, arranging them carefully into a Christmas tree outline. This part is just as fun as it is delicious. The pull-apart effect comes from these individual balls baking together, so don’t skip this creative step!

Step 7: Proof Before Baking

Cover your dough tree and let it proof for another hour. This second proof ensures each ball puffs up and bonds slightly to the neighbors, creating that irresistible pull-apart texture. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) during the last 15 minutes.

Step 8: Egg Wash for the Perfect Golden Crust

Perform a gentle finger poke test; the indentation should spring back slowly. Mix your egg with a tablespoon of water for an egg wash, then brush each dough ball generously. This gives your bread its signature golden, glossy finish that’s as beautiful as it is appetizing.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling

Place your Christmas tree bread in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling happily. Your kitchen will smell amazing by this point—almost too wonderful to wait!

Step 10: Herb Butter Glaze and Finishing Touches

Right out of the oven, brush your bread with melted butter combined with fresh basil, parsley, and rosemary for a burst of herbaceous flavor. Sprinkle the grated parmesan and, if you’re feeling adventurous, some red pepper flakes on top for a little extra zing. This finishing step takes the Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe from impressive to unforgettable.

Step 11: Serve With Warm Marinara Dipping Sauce

Place a small bowl of warm marinara alongside your bread for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce mingles beautifully with the rich cheese and buttery herbs, creating a flavor combo that keeps everyone reaching for more.

How to Serve Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or rosemary sprinkled on top right after baking add not only a pop of color but also brighten each bite. A light dusting of parmesan or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance both presentation and flavor in a subtle way.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a warm bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, but it also shines alongside a crisp green salad or a hearty soup. The contrast between fresh greens and the cheesy bread makes for a well-rounded meal that delights at any holiday gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your bread into a true showstopper by placing it on a wooden board or a festive platter surrounded by sprigs of fresh herbs or holly (make sure not to eat the holly!). Adding small bowls of different dipping sauces like garlic butter or pesto can create a fun interactive experience for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to keep it soft. Stored at room temperature, it will stay fresh for 2 days, though its best enjoyed fresh from the oven.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead of time, freeze the shaped dough balls after the first rise but before the second proofing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proof and bake as usual. After baking, you can also freeze fully baked bread wrapped tightly and reheat when needed.

Reheating

To bring the bread back to life, warm it gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This revives the golden crust and melty cheese interior without drying it out. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the bread chewy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella’s meltiness is perfect for this recipe, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, fontina, or gouda for different flavors and textures. Just keep in mind mozzarella melts best for that classic gooey pull-apart effect.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! The steps are straightforward with simple ingredients, but the result looks and tastes impressive. Taking your time during kneading and proofing ensures success, and you’ll love how fun shaping the tree is.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute milk with a plant-based milk and use dairy-free butter and cheese alternatives. The texture may vary slightly, but you can still achieve a tasty, festive pull-apart bread.

What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and the liquid is warm but not hot. If dough isn’t rising after an hour, try placing it in a warmer spot or give it a gentle knead to redistribute yeast. Patience is key!

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

When enclosing the cheese inside the dough balls, seal them tightly by pinching the dough edges together well. Using small cubes rather than large pieces helps keep the cheese securely inside during baking.

Final Thoughts

There is something so magical about gathering around a table and sharing an Irresistibly Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe—its aroma alone feels like a warm holiday hug. This recipe offers not just a delightful eating experience but also a playful way to celebrate the season with friends and family. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes the most talked-about dish at your festive gatherings!

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