Cheesy Pull-Apart Tree Bread
Cheesy Pull-Apart Tree Bread is the ultimate festive appetizer—soft, buttery, and stuffed with gooey mozzarella. Shaped like a Christmas tree, this golden, garlic-brushed bread is as fun to eat as it is beautiful to serve. Perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or cozy movie nights, it’s a simple, show-stopping dish that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough or crescent roll dough
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil optional, for brushing the pan
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out pizza or crescent dough and cut into even squares. Place a cheese cube or half a string cheese piece in each square and wrap tightly into a ball.
- Shape the Tree: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange dough balls in a Christmas tree shape—one on top, then two, three, and so on until the base. Add a small “trunk” at the bottom if desired.
- Add Garlic Butter: Melt butter and stir in minced garlic. Brush the mixture over the dough balls generously.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
- Finish & Serve: Brush again with the remaining garlic butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley. Serve warm with marinara or your favorite dip.
Notes
- Keep the cheese cold before wrapping to prevent leaks.
- Seal dough edges firmly to hold the filling.
- Add pepperoni, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best gooey cheese pull.
- To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.