Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
13 ounces canned refrigerator pizza dough.
02 -
Parchment paper for lining baking sheet.
03 -
6-7 mozzarella cheese sticks.
04 -
1 large egg.
05 -
1 tablespoon water.
06 -
3 tablespoons butter, melted.
07 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided.
08 -
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped.
09 -
1/2 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped.
10 -
1/2 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped.
11 -
1 clove garlic, grated.
12 -
1 jar marinara and/or pesto for dipping.
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
02 -
Cut the pizza dough into 30 approximately equal squares. Then, take the mozzarella cheese sticks and cut them into 30 bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch each.
03 -
Place a piece of mozzarella on each square of dough. Gently shape each one into a ball, ensuring the cheese is well-enclosed, and smooth any seams.
04 -
Arrange the dough balls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet to form the shape of a Christmas tree, making sure the balls are touching. This will help them bake into a cohesive pull-apart bread.
05 -
In a small bowl, mix the egg with water to make an egg wash. Lightly brush each dough ball with this mixture to give them a shiny finish.
06 -
Bake for 16-18 minutes, or until the bread turns a glorious golden brown.
07 -
While the bread bakes, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in half the Parmesan cheese, grated garlic, parsley, rosemary, and basil until well combined.
08 -
As soon as the bread is out of the oven, brush on the herby garlic butter mixture, ensuring each ball is glossy and flavorful. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan generously over the top.
09 -
Serve immediately with marinara or pesto for dipping. Enjoy!.
# Notes:
01 -
This appetizer complements a festive table beautifully and can be tailored with your favorite cheeses or herbs.
02 -
For a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for an extra kick.