Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season. This recipe not only looks great on your holiday table but is also a delicious treat for family and friends. The combination of soft, fluffy bread with gooey mozzarella cheese makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to pull apart and share!
How to Make Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 tsp instant dry yeast
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup milk or water
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 8½ oz mozzarella cheese, cubed (or approx 8 string cheese sticks)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Marinara (for dipping)
Directions:
Start by combining all the dough ingredients, except for the butter. Mix until you no longer see any dry flour. Cover and let the dough rest for 10 minutes with the softened butter.
Knead the dough either with a stand mixer or by hand for about 10-15 minutes until it is smooth and passes the windowpane test.
Cover the dough and let it rise for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, cut the cheese into 30-33 pieces, weighing around 7 grams each.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down. Divide it into balls, each weighing around 19-20 grams. Cover and let them relax for 10 minutes.
Take a piece of cheese and insert it into each dough ball. Arrange the balls on parchment paper on a baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, leaving space between them for expansion. Cover and let them proof for another hour.
Preheat your oven to 425ºF (218ºC).
To check if the dough is ready to bake, perform a finger poke test. If the indent from your finger stays and slowly retracts back, the dough is ready. If it springs back quickly, give it a bit more time to rise.
In a small ramekin, mix the egg and water. Use this mix to brush each dough ball with an egg wash.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the bread is golden brown.
Combine the chopped herbs with melted butter. Brush this mixture over the baked dough and sprinkle with grated cheese and optional red pepper flakes.
Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
How to Serve Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
This bread is perfect as an appetizer or a fun side dish for your holiday meal. Arrange the bread on a festive platter and serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Guests will love pulling apart the pieces and enjoying the gooey cheese!
How to Store Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
If you have any leftovers, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the delicious gooeyness.
Tips to Make Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
- Ensure your dough ingredients are at room temperature for the best rise.
- Use high-quality mozzarella cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the herb butter; it adds a lovely flavor to the bread.
- If you want more kick, add extra red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can customize this bread by using different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or a mix of cheeses. You might also sprinkle some garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-made dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough or bread dough if you’re short on time. Just follow the same steps for filling and shaping.
2. How can I make this bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and shape it the day before. Cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature and proof before baking.
3. Can I freeze the leftover bread?
Yes, freeze the leftover bread after it has cooled. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. To eat, thaw in the fridge, then warm in the oven.