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Cheesy Tree Bread

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Cheesy Tree Bread is a festive pull-apart appetizer made with soft dough balls stuffed with melty cheese, arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree, and brushed with garlic herb butter. It’s golden, gooey, and perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb pizza dough or biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 20–24 cubes of mozzarella cheese (or 1–1½ cups shredded mozzarella)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning)
  • 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Optional: marinara or ranch dressing for dipping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cut the dough into 20–24 equal pieces (about 1½ to 2 inches each).
  3. Flatten each dough piece slightly, place a cube or pinch of mozzarella in the center, and seal into a ball.
  4. Arrange the dough balls seam-side down in the shape of a Christmas tree (starting with 1 ball at the top and adding rows increasing by one ball each until the base).
  5. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, parsley or herbs, salt, and parmesan (if using).
  6. Brush the herb butter over all the dough balls generously.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
  8. Brush with additional butter mixture after baking for extra flavor.
  9. Serve warm with dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

  • Use cubed cheese for a gooey center or shredded cheese pressed into each dough ball.
  • Seal dough tightly to prevent cheese from leaking out during baking.
  • Add a dough star topper for a decorative finish.
  • Customize with fillings like pepperoni, pesto, or different cheeses.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cheesy-tree-bread/