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Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Deliciously Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

This Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a visually stunning and delicious addition to any holiday gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Rising Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 pieces
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 240

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups Bread Flour Use all-purpose flour if needed.
  • 2 teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast Ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Consider honey as a natural alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Table salt can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Milk or Water Substitute with non-dairy milk for a vegan version.
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Replace with plant-based butter for dairy-free options.
  • 1 large Egg Can substitute with a plant-based egg wash.
For the Filling
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Use any cheese that melts well.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Herbs Basil, parsley, rosemary, dried herbs can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Skip for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional based on personal preference.
For Dipping
  • 1 cup Marinara Sauce Can be switched with pesto or other sauces.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Clean Kitchen Towel
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, instant dry yeast, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Gradually add warm milk or water and mix until a rough dough forms. Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes before adding melted unsalted butter. Knead the dough for 10–15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  2. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours or until it has doubled in size.
  3. Prepare the mozzarella by cutting it into 30–33 small pieces and set aside for easy access during assembly.
  4. Punch the dough down gently, divide it into 19–20g portions, and roll each piece into a ball. Flatten each ball, place a piece of mozzarella in the center, and reshape it, sealing the cheese inside. Arrange the filled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
  5. Cover the arranged dough balls with a clean kitchen towel and let them proof for about 1 hour in a warm place. Preheat the oven to 425ºF (218ºC).
  6. Brush the tops with an egg wash, then bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese begins to ooze out.
  7. Mix melted butter with fresh herbs and brush generously on top of the warm bread. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 240kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This bread is quick to make, visually stunning, and a crowd-pleaser. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

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