Christmas Tree Bread is a delightful and easy treat perfect for the holiday season. This cheesy, savory bread looks stunning on any table and is sure to impress your family and friends. With minimal prep time and pre-made ingredients, it’s an ideal addition to your festive celebrations.
Table of Contents
Why Christmas Tree Bread is a Must-Try
Festive Presentation and Appeal
This charming Christmas Tree Bread brings a warm and festive vibe to your holiday gatherings. Shaped like a Christmas tree, it’s not just a tasty appetizer but also a beautiful centerpiece. The golden brown, buttery crust paired with gooey mozzarella makes it irresistible!
Easy to Make with Pre-Made Ingredients
Using canned refrigerator pizza dough, this recipe simplifies the cooking process. You won’t need to spend hours preparing dough from scratch. With just a few ingredients, you can create this festive masterpiece in no time.
Ingredients for Christmas Tree Bread
Essential Ingredients
For this delightful bread, you will need 13 ounces of canned refrigerator pizza dough, parchment paper for lining your baking sheet, and 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks. The egg wash consists of 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Additionally, prepare 3 tablespoons of melted butter and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, divided. For flavor, add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary, 1/2 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh basil, and 1 clove of grated garlic.
Recommended Dipping Sauces
This bread pairs beautifully with marinara sauce and/or pesto for dipping, enhancing its flavors and adding a delightful touch to your holiday spread.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough and Cheese
First, preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Next, cut the pizza dough into 30 equal squares and slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces. Then, place a piece of mozzarella on each square of dough, rolling the dough into a ball and sealing the edges.
Forming the Christmas Tree Shape
Arrange the dough balls seam side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, ensuring they are touching. In a small bowl, mix the egg and water, then brush this mixture over the dough balls to achieve a beautiful golden color when baked.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Now, bake for 16-18 minutes or until they turn golden brown. While the bread is baking, melt the butter in the microwave and mix it with half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and herbs. After baking, brush this herb garlic butter over the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
Tips for Making Christmas Tree Bread Ahead of Time
Freezing Instructions
This bread can be prepared in advance for your convenience. Roll the cheese-filled balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet without applying the egg wash. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 2 to 2.5 hours. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag for storage.
Thawing and Baking
When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough balls for about 45 minutes, assemble the tree, apply the egg wash, and bake at 350°F for approximately 20 minutes. This way, you can have fresh, warm Christmas Tree Bread anytime!
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
Alternative Dipping Sauces
Feel free to explore different dipping sauces! Besides marinara and pesto, consider serving with garlic butter or a creamy ranch dip for an extra burst of flavor.
Pairing with Main Dishes
This festive bread pairs wonderfully with main dishes like roasted meats or hearty soups. It can also be served alongside other holiday treats, making it a versatile addition to your Christmas menu.
FAQs
What is the Christmas tree rule?
The Christmas tree rule refers to the traditional method of decorating a Christmas tree, ensuring that ornaments are evenly spaced and well-balanced.
How to score a Christmas tree in bread?
To score a Christmas tree in bread, you can use a sharp knife to create gentle lines or shapes on the dough before baking, mimicking the outline of a tree.
What is a traditional Christmas bread from Germany called?
A traditional Christmas bread from Germany is called Stollen, which is a fruit bread of nuts, spices, and dried or candied fruit, often dusted with powdered sugar.
What are 10 facts about Christmas trees?
1. Christmas trees are often evergreen conifers, symbolizing life during winter. 2. The tradition dates back to the 16th century in Germany. 3. Artificial trees were first made in Germany in the 19th century. 4. The tallest Christmas tree recorded was 221 feet tall in 1950. 5. Oregon is the largest producer of Christmas trees in the U.S. 6. Christmas trees are typically decorated with lights, ornaments, and garlands. 7. The first recorded use of a Christmas tree in the U.S. was in 1747. 8. Tinsel was invented in Germany in the 1600s. 9. The most popular Christmas tree species in the U.S. are the Fraser fir and Douglas fir. 10. Christmas trees are often recycled into mulch or compost after the holiday season.
Related Recipes to try
Conclusion
This Christmas Tree Bread is a fantastic way to celebrate the season with delicious flavors and festive fun. It’s not only easy to make, but it also brings your family together for a joyful baking experience. For more holiday inspiration, check out our Pinterest page at Artemis Recipes.
Deliciously Festive Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients
- 13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough
- Parchment paper for lining the baking sheet
- 6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
- ½ tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
- 1 clove grated garlic
- Marinara sauce and/or pesto for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the pizza dough into 30 equal squares and slice the mozzarella cheese sticks into 30 bite-sized pieces.
- Place a piece of mozzarella on each square of dough, then roll the dough into a ball, sealing the edges.
- Arrange the dough balls seam side down on the baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, ensuring they are touching. In a small bowl, mix the egg and water, then brush the mixture over the dough balls.
- Bake for 16-18 minutes or until golden brown. While baking, melt the butter in the microwave, then mix in half of the parmesan cheese along with the grated garlic and herbs. After baking, brush the herb garlic butter over the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with marinara and/or pesto for dipping.