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Close-up of a golden brown Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread, perfect for a festive holiday appetizer.

Easy Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread

This festive Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread is a show-stopping appetizer, perfect for sharing and celebrating the holidays. Soft, fluffy dough is combined with gooey mozzarella and sharp cheddar, shaped like a Christmas tree, and baked to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs optional
  • Pomegranate seeds optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Plastic wrap
  • Oven
  • Perforated pizza pan or baking rack (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, egg, and melted butter.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, combine the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese in a bowl.
  7. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning.
  8. Assemble the Bread: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  9. Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into approximately 60-70 small pieces (about 1 inch in diameter).
  10. Dip each piece of dough into the garlic butter mixture, then toss it in the cheese mixture.
  11. Arrange the cheese-covered dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting with a wide base and tapering to a point at the top. Leave small gaps between the dough balls to allow for expansion during baking.
  12. Bake the Bread: Brush the assembled Christmas tree bread with melted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
  13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Garnish and Serve: Let the bread cool slightly before garnishing with fresh rosemary sprigs and pomegranate seeds, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

To prevent a soggy bottom, elevate the bread on a perforated pizza pan or baking rack. Ensure the dough rises properly by allowing it to double in size. Tightly pack the dough balls together to prevent the cheese from melting and running off. Don't overbake, as this can dry out the bread. Get creative with decorations using fresh rosemary sprigs, pomegranate seeds, or cherry tomatoes for a festive Christmas tree design. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.