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

Perfect Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread

This festive Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Layers of buttery garlic goodness and melted cheese create an irresistible pull-apart experience that's sure to impress your guests.
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish optional
  • Oil, for greasing the bowl

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Plastic wrap
  • Lightly oiled bowl
  • Lightly floured surface
  • Rolling Pin
  • Pizza cutter or sharp knife
  • 9-inch springform pan or bundt pan
  • Oven
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Dough hook (optional)

Method
 

  1. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, melted butter, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
  3. First Proof: 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.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
  5. Assemble the Bread: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
  6. Cut and Stack: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into 6-8 long strips. Stack the strips on top of each other.
  7. Cut into Squares: Cut the stacked strips into 2-inch squares.
  8. Arrange in Pan: Grease a 9-inch springform pan or bundt pan. Arrange the dough squares vertically in the pan, creating a spiral or circular pattern.
  9. Second Proof: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
  10. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before releasing it from the springform pan. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use a drier, part-skim mozzarella cheese. Ensure the butter is softened for the filling. You can substitute different cheeses based on your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. For a richer flavor, brush the baked bread with melted butter and garlic.