Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday appetizer: cheesy Christmas tree bread! This delightful little creation not only looks like a festive Christmas tree, but it’s also filled with gooey, melty cheese that will have everyone coming back for more. It’s become a staple in my holiday gatherings, and I just can’t get enough of it. Trust me, the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with garlic and cheese is enough to make anyone feel warm and fuzzy inside.

Every time I make this cheesy bread, it brings back memories of family gatherings where we all gather around the table, laughing and chatting, and of course, nibbling on this delicious treat. The best part? It’s super easy to make! You can even get the kids involved in shaping the dough, which makes it a fun activity for everyone. So, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just looking for a cozy snack to enjoy while watching your favorite Christmas movie, this cheesy Christmas tree bread is the perfect choice! Let’s dive into how to make it, shall we?

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano

How to Prepare Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread

Alright, let’s get our hands a little doughy and bring this festive cheesy Christmas tree bread to life! Just follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a show-stopping appetizer that will impress everyone at your holiday gathering.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

First things first, we need to wake up our yeast! In a bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (you want it to feel like a cozy bath, not too hot) with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 packet of active dry yeast. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to bubble and foam up a little—this means your yeast is alive and ready to make your bread rise!

Step 2: Make the Dough

Now, it’s time to bring in the flour! Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to your yeast mixture. Mix it all together until a dough begins to form. It’s like magic, I tell you! Once it’s combined, flour your countertop and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic, so get in there and give it some love!

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

After all that kneading, it’s time to let our dough rest. Place it in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and find a warm spot for it to rise for about 1 hour. This is where the dough gets to puff up and become all fluffy and wonderful. Just resist the temptation to peek too often—you want it to get nice and cozy without disturbances!

Step 4: Shape the Bread

Once your dough has risen and doubled in size, it’s time for the fun part! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you roll out the dough on a floured surface. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness. Then, using a sharp knife or cookie cutter, cut the dough into tree shapes. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they’ll all look adorable once baked! Now, place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each tree cutout and fold the dough over to encase that ooey-gooey goodness inside.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Before we pop these beauties in the oven, let’s give them a little love! Brush the tops of your shaped bread with about 1/4 cup of melted butter, and then sprinkle on that lovely garlic powder and dried oregano. This will add a wonderful flavor that will have everyone drooling before they even take a bite!

Step 6: Bake

Finally, it’s showtime! Place your cheesy Christmas tree bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for that beautiful golden brown finish. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly, and trust me, you’ll want to dive right in as soon as they’re out! Enjoy the magic of the holidays with this delicious treat!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk about the numbers behind this delightful cheesy Christmas tree bread! While it’s definitely a treat, it’s nice to know what we’re indulging in, right? So here’s a quick look at the nutritional values:

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keep in mind that these values are just estimates, and they can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, let’s enjoy this festive goodness without worrying too much about the numbers—especially during the holidays! Happy munching!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a festive centerpiece that brings holiday cheer to any gathering!
• The gooey, melted cheese inside is simply irresistible—everyone will be reaching for seconds!
• Super easy to make, even for beginner bakers—no fancy techniques required!
• Customizable with your favorite spices and cheeses, so you can make it your own!
• Perfect for sharing with friends and family, making memories around the table.
• Looks adorable and impressive, yet it’s so fun to prepare—especially with little helpers!
• Great as a warm appetizer or a delightful snack while watching holiday movies.
• It fills your home with the warm, comforting aroma of fresh bread and garlic!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re on your way to making the most delightful cheesy Christmas tree bread, let me share some of my best tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will help you tackle any potential hiccups along the way.

• Temperature Matters: When activating your yeast, make sure the water is warm but not too hot! It should feel like a cozy bath—too hot, and you’ll kill the yeast. If it feels uncomfortable to your touch, it’s too hot!
• Knead with Love: Don’t rush the kneading process! Knead for a full 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This helps develop the gluten, which is key for a chewy texture.
• Warm Rising Spot: If your kitchen is a bit chilly, don’t fret! You can create a warm environment by turning on your oven for a minute, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise. Just keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t get too warm!
• Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix up your cheeses! While mozzarella is a classic choice, adding some cheddar or pepper jack can give your bread an exciting twist. Just make sure to shred your cheese for the best melting results.
• Baking Sheet Prep: To prevent sticking, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It makes cleanup a breeze and helps the bottoms of your cheesy trees get that nice golden color!
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your bread while it’s baking! If it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom, it’s ready to come out. If it’s not quite there yet, give it a couple more minutes—just don’t let it overbake!
• Serve Warm: This bread is best enjoyed warm right out of the oven! If you have leftovers, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that gooey cheese goodness.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends with this adorable and delicious festive treat. Happy baking!

Variations

One of the best things about cheesy Christmas tree bread is how versatile it can be! While I adore the classic mozzarella flavor, there are so many fun ways to switch things up and make this recipe your own. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Cheese Medley: Experiment with different types of cheese! Try a mix of cheddar for a sharp bite, pepper jack for some heat, or gouda for a smoky flavor. You can even add cream cheese for extra creaminess!
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the dough or sprinkle them on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor. The aroma will be absolutely delightful!
• Spicy Twist: Mix in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes with the cheese for a spicy kick that will surprise your guests!
• Festive Shapes: While Christmas trees are adorable, why not try other festive shapes? Stars, snowflakes, or even Christmas ornaments can add a whimsical touch to your appetizer spread.
• Stuffed Goodness: Consider adding other fillings inside the dough, like cooked spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a dollop of pesto for a burst of flavor with each bite!
• Sweet Version: For a unique twist, try a sweet version by filling the dough with a mix of cream cheese, powdered sugar, and cinnamon. Bake it up, and you’ve got a delightful dessert bread!

With these variations, you can keep the festive spirit alive and cater to different tastes! So, gather your favorite ingredients and let your imagination run wild while making this cheesy Christmas tree bread your own. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to keep that cheesy Christmas tree bread fresh and delicious after it steals the show at your holiday gathering! Trust me, you won’t want to waste a single bite of this yummy treat.

First off, if you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the bread cool completely before storing it. Once it’s cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container to keep it as fresh as possible. It’ll stay good in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep it away from any strong-smelling foods, as bread can absorb those odors!

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, it’s all about reheating them properly to bring back that delicious gooeyness. I recommend popping them in the oven to really revive that crispy exterior and melty cheese. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wrapped bread directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer, you can also unwrap it and place it directly on the baking sheet for a few minutes at the end to crisp up the edges.

If you’re in a hurry, you can give them a quick zap in the microwave. Just place a piece on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 20-30 seconds. Keep an eye on it, though—you want it warm, but not rubbery! It’s all about that perfect balance of warmth and melty goodness.

And there you have it! Simple storage and reheating tips to ensure that your cheesy Christmas tree bread stays just as delightful the next time you dig in. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and happy holidays!

Share Your Experience

I absolutely love hearing from you, so please, share your experience making this cheesy Christmas tree bread! Did it become the star of your holiday gathering? What fun variations did you try? I’m all ears for your stories and tips!

If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be thrilled if you could leave a rating below. It helps me know what you love and inspires others to give it a go! Plus, I’d love to see your beautiful creations—feel free to share your photos on social media and tag me! Nothing makes me happier than seeing you all enjoying this festive treat.

Let’s spread the joy of cheesy Christmas tree bread together and fill our kitchens with laughter and deliciousness. I can’t wait to hear from you!

Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread: 7 Irresistible Holiday Bites

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cheesy Christmas tree bread is a festive and fun appetizer. It features a tree-shaped bread filled with gooey cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Roll out the dough and cut into tree shapes.
7. Place cheese in the center and fold dough over.
8. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder and oregano.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

• Use different types of cheese for variety.
• Serve warm for best taste.
• Can be shaped into other holiday designs.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cheesy christmas tree bread, holiday appetizer, festive bread