There’s something magical about the first bite of a warm, freshly-baked Christmas tree pull-apart bread. The aroma fills the kitchen, and suddenly everyone gathers around, eager to try this festive creation. This golden-brown bread, shaped like a Christmas tree and filled with herbs and cheese, is more than just a side dish—it’s a holiday centerpiece that brings joy to any gathering.
What makes this recipe special is the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, chewy centers. The layers of flaky dough, infused with rosemary and thyme, create a texture that’s both satisfying and comforting. And the golden-brown crust, brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with parsley, adds a final touch of holiday cheer.
Why This Recipe Works
This Festive Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread is a showstopper because it combines simplicity with elegance. The dough is easy to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients and a little kneading. The herb and cheese filling adds a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the buttery crust. And the Christmas tree shape makes it a festive addition to any holiday table.
The secret to its success lies in the technique. By rolling the dough into a log and slicing it into pieces, you create layers that bake into a golden, flaky texture. The herbs and cheese melt into the dough, creating a savory filling that’s both rich and flavorful. And the final touch of melted butter and parsley adds a fresh, aromatic finish.
Ingredients You'll Need
You’ll need just a handful of pantry staples to make this festive bread:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Sugar
- Active dry yeast
- Warm milk
- Large egg
- Unsalted butter
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped rosemary
- Chopped thyme
- Garlic powder
- Melted butter (for topping)
- Chopped parsley (for topping)
How to Make It
Start by combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Add the wet ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, then let it rise in a warm place for an hour. While the dough is rising, prepare the herb and cheese filling.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle and spread the filling evenly. Roll the dough into a log, slice it into 1-inch pieces, and arrange them in a Christmas tree shape on a baking sheet. Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes before baking at 375°F until golden brown. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature butter for a smoother dough.
- Don’t skip the second rise—the dough will be more airy and flavorful.
- For a golden crust, brush with melted butter before baking.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these variations:
- Add dried cranberries or raisins to the filling for a sweet twist.
- Use different cheeses like Gouda or Havarti for a unique flavor.
- Top with a honey glaze instead of melted butter for a sweeter finish.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions
This festive pull-apart bread pairs perfectly with a cozy holiday meal. Serve it alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, add a side of cranberry sauce or a spiced apple pie.
Final Thoughts
This Festive Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a holiday tradition waiting to be made. With its golden-brown crust, savory herb and cheese filling, and festive shape, it’s sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a bread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
For best Pinterest visibility, post this festive pull-apart bread as part of a complete meal series over 5-7 days: anchor main dish first, followed by complementary sides, finishing with a dessert completion pin.
