Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe Article

This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is not only a delightful addition to your holiday table but also a fun activity to involve your family in the kitchen. With its festive shape and gooey, cheesy filling, this recipe is sure to impress and bring smiles to faces around your holiday gathering. It’s a great way to bring a warm, homemade touch to your holiday festivities, and it’s surprisingly simple to make!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 200
Protein: 10 grams
Carbohydrates: 22 grams
Fat: 10 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 300 mg

Why Make This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

This cheerful bread is perfect for the holidays. It combines the comforting flavors of pesto and cheeses that everyone loves, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Not only does it taste amazing, but its presentation is equally as appealing—its tree shape is a fantastic centerpiece on any holiday spread. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: serve it as an appetizer, a side, or a delightful snack that will have everyone reaching for more.

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Making Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and engaging process. It starts with simple ingredients and ends with a spectacularly festive creation that’s sure to impress. Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, cheesy bread in no time!

Ingredients:

1 package of pizza dough
1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup of pesto
1 egg (for egg wash)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) ensuring it’s hot enough to bake the dough perfectly and achieve that golden brown color.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough into a large triangle shape on a floured surface. The size should allow ample room for filling and create that tree shape.
Step 3: Add the Pesto

Spread the pesto evenly over the dough. The pesto will serve as a flavorful base for the cheesy filling, giving your bread a delicious herbaceous kick.
Step 4: Sprinkle the Cheeses

Generously sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the pesto. This cheesy layer gives the bread its irresistible melty texture.
Step 5: Cut the Branches

Carefully cut the dough into strips from the wide end toward the tip of the triangle to create ‘branches’ for your tree. The strips should be about 1 inch wide for a lovely presentation.
Step 6: Shape the Tree

Twist each strip slightly to form a decorative tree shape. This step adds flair to your bread, making it visually stunning.
Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Brush the twisted dough lightly with a beaten egg, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance flavor. The egg wash will provide a lovely golden finish.
Step 8: Bake

Place the shaped bread in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma of baking bread with melted cheese will fill your kitchen!
Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving to your guests.

How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

The perfect way to present this festive bread is on a large platter. Cut it into slices and serve it warm with extra pesto or marinara sauce for dipping. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or can be enjoyed on its own while mingling with family and friends during holiday gatherings.

How to Store Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

If you have leftovers, store your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Ensure your pizza dough is fresh for the best texture. If you can, let it come to room temperature before rolling for easier handling.
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add some cooked bacon bits or diced vegetables for added flavor.
For a festive touch, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top for a pop of color!

Delicious Variations

Herbed Cheese Variation: Try using herb-infused cheese blends instead of just mozzarella and parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
Vegetable Option: Load your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with some chopped spinach or roasted red peppers for a nutritious twist.
Sweet Twist: For a dessert option, swap the pesto for nutella and sprinkle with powdered sugar after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough works wonderfully! Just make sure it’s rolled thin enough to create the twisting effect.
What if I don’t have pesto?
You can substitute pesto with a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, and Italian herbs, or even a cream cheese spread for a different flavor.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fillings ahead of time, assemble it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How can I make it more festive?
Add colorful sprinkles of bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on top before baking for a pop of color that matches the holiday spirit.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love helping with this recipe, from spreading the pesto to twisting the dough. Feel free to adapt the filling to suit their tastes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is a joyful and delicious recipe that captures the spirit of the holidays. With its festive design and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for gatherings or as a cozy family snack. Give this recipe a try; it’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season while creating delightful memories with loved ones in the kitchen. Enjoy this warm, cheesy bread at your next holiday gathering, and watch it disappear in no time!