Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

As the holiday season approaches, kitchens everywhere come alive with the scents of festive baking and cooking. The joy of creating delicious dishes and sharing them with loved ones is a cherished tradition that brings families together. Among the many delightful holiday recipes that adorn our tables, one stands out for its visual appeal and scrumptious taste: Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread. This festive appetizer is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece that captures the spirit of the season.

Make your holiday gatherings unforgettable with Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread! This whimsical, gooey appetizer is not just delicious, but also a stunning centerpiece. Perfect for parties and potlucks, it’s easy to prepare using either store-bought or homemade pizza dough. Fill it with rich mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and watch guests delight in tearing off the branches. Bring the festive spirit to your table with this interactive treat! #CheesyBread #ChristmasRecipes #HolidayCooking #FestiveFood #AppetizerIdeas #BakingFun #ChristmasAppetizers

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Ingredients

1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.

Create the Tree Shape: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into a Christmas tree shape. Start with a triangle as the tree top, and at the bottom, add a rectangle as the trunk.

Season the Cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.

Assemble the Bread: Sprinkle the cheese mixture over the tree shape, leaving a little room on the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over to prevent cheese from spilling out.

Cut the Branches: Make upward slits on either side of the tree (like branches), making sure not to cut all the way through. Twist each strip slightly to expose the cheese filling.

Egg Wash: Place the shaped tree on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the beaten egg over the tree for a golden finish.

Drizzle Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the olive oil over the tree and sprinkle a little extra salt and pepper for flavor.

Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tree is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.

Garnish: Once out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color.

Serve: Slice and serve warm as a delightful holiday appetizer!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 8-12 slices