Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread
A delightful and festive bread shaped like a Christmas tree filled with gooey mozzarella and complemented by fresh herbs, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the dough and filling
- 13 ounces refrigerated pizza dough Can substitute with gluten-free pizza dough.
- 6 sticks mozzarella cheese Cut into pieces for filling.
- 1 large egg For egg wash.
- 1 tablespoon water For egg wash mixture.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted For brushing on top and mixing with herbs.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Divided into two portions.
For seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- ½ tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, grated Adds flavor to the herb butter.
For dipping
- 1 jar marinara or pesto sauce For serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the refrigerated pizza dough into 30 evenly sized squares.
- Slice the mozzarella sticks into 30 pieces, each about one inch in length.
- Wrap each cheese piece in a square of the pizza dough, sealing the edges completely.
- Place the wrapped dough balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
Baking
- In a small bowl, beat together the egg and water to prepare the egg wash.
- Brush the tops of the dough balls with the egg wash.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, melt the butter and mix in half of the grated parmesan, garlic, and herbs.
- Once the bread is done, brush it with the herb butter mixture and sprinkle the remaining parmesan on top.
- Serve immediately with marinara or pesto sauce for dipping.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or freeze for later. Reheat in the oven at 350°F.