Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

If you’re dreaming of a festive, fun, and utterly irresistible appetizer to wow your holiday guests, look no further than this Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread Recipe. It’s a celebration on a platter, combining warm, gooey mozzarella nestled in pillowy biscuit dough, all kissed with a fragrant garlic butter glaze. This bread not only brings the perfect cheesy, garlicky flavor but also creates an eye-catching centerpiece for your Christmas spread. You’ll find it surprisingly simple to make, yet impressive enough to become your new holiday tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of essential ingredients that work together to create that signature soft pull-apart texture and burst of cheesy goodness. Each component plays its own part—from the buttery garlic topping to the stretchy mozzarella, every bite sings with flavor and warmth.

• 16 oz can jumbo biscuits: These are the soft dough foundation that bakes into golden, fluffy rolls perfect for stuffing cheese inside.
• Mozzarella cheese sticks (7-8 sticks): Cut into 31 pieces, mozzarella offers that deliciously melty, stringy cheese pull we all love.
• 4 tbsp salted butter: Provides richness and buttery flavor, especially when combined with garlic for brushing on top.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the bread with irresistible aroma and a punch of flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds warmth and a subtle herbal note to the butter glaze.
• 1 large egg (beaten): This will help create a shiny, golden crust that looks as good as it tastes.
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle adds a salty, nutty finish to your Christmas tree creation.

How to Make Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400F. This high temperature ensures your bread gets that lovely golden crust while keeping the inside soft and melty. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper—this will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cut and Prepare the Dough and Cheese

Take your jumbo biscuits and cut each one into fourths—you should have 32 pieces total. You’ll only need 31 pieces, so feel free to snack on one or save it for later. Next, cut your mozzarella sticks into 31 pieces, matching the number of dough squares. This careful pairing makes stuffing and assembly a breeze.

Step 3: Stuff and Shape the Dough Balls

Place a small portion of mozzarella on each dough square. Seal the edges tightly around the cheese to make sure it stays inside while baking. Roll each piece gently into a smooth ball; this step helps create those perfect pull-apart bites with cheese oozing inside.

Step 4: Assemble the Christmas Tree Shape

On your parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the dough balls with the seams down so they don’t open during baking. Shape them into a classic Christmas tree, making sure the dough balls slightly touch one another so the bread bakes together yet pulls apart easily. Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg—this will add that beautiful glossy finish.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake your cheesy tree for about 15 to 17 minutes or until the bread turns a perfect golden brown. Keep an eye on it because ovens vary. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover the top with foil to prevent burning and ensure even baking.

Step 6: Add Garlic Butter and Parmesan

While the bread bakes, melt your butter and stir in the fresh minced garlic and Italian seasoning. As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush this fragrant mixture generously over the rolls. For an extra flare of flavor, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top—it creates a salty, slightly crunchy finish that’s divine.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

This Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread Recipe shines brightest when served immediately, warm and bubbly. Pair it with marinara sauce or pesto for dipping to add a tangy or herbal contrast. Watching everyone tear off cheesy, garlicky pieces right from the tree is pure joy!

How to Serve Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of green that adds freshness and a festive look. If you want to kick up the flavor, a light dusting of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can add a subtle, smoky heat that complements the garlic perfectly.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with light salads, such as a crisp Caesar or mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette. Soups, especially tomato basil or creamy mushroom, turn this dish into a cozy, comforting meal perfect for chilly winter nights.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your pull-apart tree bread on a wooden board or festive platter and scatter small bowls of various dips around it. You can also decorate with edible rosemary sprigs to mimic tree branches and add an aromatic evergreen note that amplifies the holiday vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover bread is best kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain softness, you can wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the bread quickly.

Freezing

If you want to make this bread ahead, assemble the tree but don’t bake it. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to one month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake fresh for that just-made magic.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to life, reheat in a 350F oven for about 10 minutes until the bread is warm and the cheese softens again. You can lightly cover with foil if you want to avoid over-browning. Microwave reheating can make the bread soggy, so the oven is your best bet!

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its meltiness, feel free to combine it with provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a twist. Just ensure the cheese melts well so each bite stays gooey and delicious.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try using gluten-free biscuit dough if available. The filling and seasoning remain the same, but make sure the dough you choose is stable enough to hold the cheese and pull-apart structure.

What dipping sauces pair best with this bread?

Marinara and pesto are top favorites, but you can also try ranch, garlic butter, or a creamy spinach dip. Any bold, flavorful dip will complement the garlicky, cheesy goodness beautifully.

Can I prepare this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

To make it vegan, substitute the biscuits with a vegan dough (store-bought or homemade), replace mozzarella with vegan cheese sticks, and use a plant-based butter and egg alternative. The flavor will differ but can be just as delightful!

How do I shape the dough balls neatly?

Seal the edges of the dough firmly around the cheese and then gently roll between your palms in a circular motion until smooth. Taking your time here ensures the cheese doesn’t leak out and the balls bake evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread Recipe is the kind of holiday treat that brings people together and fills your kitchen with the most comforting aromas. It’s simple, playful, and packed with flavor—perfect for creating memories as everyone pulls apart cheesy, garlicky bites straight from the festive bread tree. I can’t wait for you to try making it and see the smiles it brings to your table.

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