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Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread

A festive and easy-to-make holiday appetizer shaped like a Christmas tree, filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and golden dough. Perfect for sharing during the Christmas season.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 225
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough and Cheese
  • 1 lb prepared pizza dough (room temperature) Soft, pliable dough that creates a perfect base for our tree.
  • 7 sticks mozzarella cheese sticks Gooey, melty cheese that’s essential for pulling apart.
  • 2 large egg yolks Give a lovely glaze to this dish.
  • 2 tbsp butter (melted) Adds richness and flavor.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley (finely chopped) For garnish.
  • 3 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan Enhances flavor and appearance.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Let the pizza dough rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  2. Cut each mozzarella stick into four bite-sized pieces to get a total of 24 pieces.
  3. Roll out the dough and cut it into 24 small squares.
Assembly
  1. Place one mozzarella cube in the center of each dough square.
  2. Fold the edges over the cheese, pinch them closed, and roll into smooth balls.
  3. Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, leaving a small 'trunk' at the bottom.
Baking
  1. Whisk the egg yolks in a small bowl and brush the tops of the dough balls.
  2. Bake at 390°F (190°C) for about 16-18 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
Finishing Touch
  1. Brush the warm bread with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley and grated Parmesan.
Serving
  1. Serve immediately while warm, paired with marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

Notes

For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs like oregano, or garlic into the melted butter. Use flavored mozzarella sticks for variety.