Name: Delicious Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: PT-491276H58M52S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Pizza dough, cut into 33 pieces; Mozzarella cheese, cut into 33 pieces; 1/4 cup butter, melted; 3 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning; 1 cup marinara sauce, for dipping

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Christmas Tree Pull Apart is the perfect festive treat for your holiday gatherings. This delightful appetizer features bite-sized mozzarella-filled dough balls arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree. Each piece is brushed with a flavorful garlic and Italian herb butter, then baked until golden brown. Serve it warm with marinara sauce for an irresistible snack that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Tree Pull Apart

This festive pull apart bread is not just visually stunning; it’s also packed with flavor and is incredibly easy to prepare. Here are several reasons why you’ll adore making this dish:

It’s a fun and interactive appetizer, perfect for parties.
The Christmas Tree Snack Pull Apart design adds a whimsical flair to your table.
Each bite is gooey and cheesy, thanks to the mozzarella filling.
It’s a quick Holiday Tree Pull Apart Recipe that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for sharing, making it a great addition to any gathering.
It can be made ahead of time, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Ingredients for Christmas Tree Pull Apart

Gather these items:

Pizza dough, cut into 33 pieces
Mozzarella cheese, cut into 33 pieces
1/4 cup butter, melted
3 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
1 cup marinara sauce, for dipping

How to Make Christmas Tree Pull Apart Step-by-Step

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Step 2: Lightly flour your countertop and place the pizza dough on it. Cut the dough into 33 equal small pieces.
Step 3: Cut the mozzarella cheese into 33 small pieces, roughly the same size as the dough portions.
Step 4: Flatten each piece of dough and place a piece of mozzarella cheese in the center. Wrap the dough around the cheese, sealing it completely.
Step 5: On the prepared baking sheet, arrange the cheese-filled dough balls in rows to form a Christmas tree.
Step 6: Whisk together the melted butter, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning in a bowl.
Step 7: Brush the entire surface of all dough balls with the prepared butter mixture.
Step 8: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the bread balls turn golden brown and the cheese inside has melted.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Tree Pull Apart

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to seal the dough properly to prevent cheese leakage.
Serve immediately for the best taste, as the cheese is gooey when fresh.
Consider using different fillings like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.

Delicious Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Recipe - Christmas Tree Pull Apart - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Tree Pull Apart

This pull apart bread is best served warm, and here are some ideas to elevate your serving:

Pair with different dips like ranch or pesto for a fun experience.
Use it as a centerpiece for your holiday party, surrounded by plates of assorted cheeses.

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Tree Pull Apart

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. For reheating, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This is a great meal prep option, as you can make it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Tree Pull Apart

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Tree Pull Apart?

The secret lies in sealing the dough properly to keep the cheese inside while baking. Make sure each dough ball is thoroughly wrapped around the mozzarella for a gooey experience with every pull.

Can I make Christmas Tree Pull Apart ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough balls and assemble them on the baking sheet ahead of time. Just cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Tree Pull Apart?

To prevent cheese leakage, ensure each dough ball is tightly sealed. Also, don’t overbake; keep an eye on the color to avoid burning and ensure the inside remains cheesy.

Variations of Christmas Tree Pull Apart You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

Christmas Tree Cheese Pull Apart: Incorporate a mix of cheeses like cheddar and gouda for a flavor explosion.
Savory Christmas Tree Pull Apart Options: Add cooked sausage or pepperoni inside for a heartier version.
Unique Christmas Tree Pull Apart Ideas: Experiment with sweet fillings like Nutella or fruit preserves for a dessert version.

For more festive recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making mini cranberry cheesecakes for dessert. You can also explore bread pudding with caramel whiskey for a delicious twist on a classic.

For tips on making the best dough, visit this pizza dough guide from King Arthur Baking.