Get ready to impress your holiday guests with a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is festive! Our Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread is the perfect blend of gooey mozzarella, savory garlic, and buttery goodness, all shaped into a delightful tree that’s sure to be the highlight of your holiday table. With just 30 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of baking, this recipe is not only easy to make but also irresistibly fun to pull apart and share. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or looking for a tasty appetizer to bring to a potluck, this cheesy creation will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your holiday spread—read on for the full recipe!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread bakes evenly and gets a nice golden color.
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the bread from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Take the loaf of bread and, using a serrated knife, carefully cut it into a Christmas tree shape. Start by cutting the top of the loaf into a triangle to form the tree's peak, then make vertical cuts down the sides to create branches. Be sure not to cut all the way through the bottom of the loaf; you want the bread to hold together.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Using a pastry brush or spoon, generously brush the garlic butter mixture all over the cut surfaces of the bread. Make sure to get into all the crevices to infuse the flavors throughout the loaf.
- Next, take the shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle it generously into the cuts of the bread. Follow this with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring that both cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the loaf.
- Once the cheese is added, carefully reshape the loaf into its original form, pressing gently to help the cheese stay in place.
- Wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil, making sure it is well-sealed to keep the moisture in while baking.
- Place the wrapped loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and return the bread to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Once baked, remove the Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cheese set slightly, making it easier to pull apart.
- Serve warm, and enjoy pulling apart the cheesy goodness with friends and family during the holiday season!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and parsley. Fresh herbs can make a significant difference in the overall taste of the bread.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Adding a bit of sharp cheddar or pepper jack can give your pull-apart bread an extra kick.
- Cut Carefully: When shaping the bread into a Christmas tree, take your time with the cuts. Make sure not to slice all the way through the bottom to keep the loaf intact.
- Don’t Skip the Foil: Wrapping the bread in aluminum foil is crucial for keeping the moisture in, ensuring that the cheese melts beautifully without drying out.
- Serve Warm: This bread is best enjoyed warm right out of the oven. If you need to make it ahead of time, you can reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore that gooey texture.
- Pair with Dips: Consider serving your Cheesy Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread with a side of marinara or garlic dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 75mg
