A streamlined appetizer for the holiday season, this Pull-Apart Cheesy Garlic Christmas Tree Bread is both festive and manageable. In just 20 minutes, you’ll create delightful bread balls stuffed with gooey mozzarella and topped with a savory garlic butter and parmesan finish.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-17 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Servings: 8-10
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, using time-saving store-bought dough.
- Perfect balance of cheesy and garlicky flavors.
- A crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
- Customizable cheese options for various tastes.
Ingredients
- 16 oz can jumbo biscuits (each biscuit cut into fourths): Forms the base of the bread balls. Using pre-made dough saves time.
- 7-8 mozzarella cheese sticks (cut into 31 pieces): Provides a creamy, melted core. Any firm cheese like cheddar can be substituted.
- 4 tbsp butter (salted): Used for basting, the salt enhances flavor. Unsalted butter works with an added pinch of salt.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Key for the garlic butter, offering robust flavor. Garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Adds herbaceous notes. Substitute with a mix of dried basil and oregano if needed.
- 1 large egg (beaten): Used as a wash to create a golden crust.
- Optional: grated parmesan cheese for garnish: Adds a salty, nutty finish that enhances the bread.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking of the bread balls.
Step 2: Assemble the Dough Balls
Cut each biscuit into fourths to yield 32 pieces, then cut mozzarella sticks into 31 pieces. Place a piece of cheese onto each dough square, sealing the dough around it, and roll it into a smooth ball. This creates pockets of melted cheese within each bread ball.
Step 3: Form the Tree Shape
On the prepared baking sheet, arrange the balls in a tree shape, keeping them slightly touching each other to ensure they bake together as a single piece. Whisk the egg and brush it gently over the balls to promote a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Bake in your preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, watching closely. The bread is ready when it turns golden brown. If they brown too quickly, covering with foil prevents burning.
Step 5: Apply Garlic Butter
While the bread bakes, melt butter and combine with minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Once the bread is out of the oven, brush generously with this mixture. If desired, sprinkle with parmesan before serving.
Recipe FAQs
Can I prepare this appetizer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough balls in advance and refrigerate them on the baking sheet. Bring to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
If you lack Italian seasoning, mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme as a quick substitute.
How should I serve this bread for the best experience?
Serve the bread warm with marinara or pesto sauce for dipping to complement the cheese and garlic flavors.
