This viral pull-apart Christmas tree bread is pure genius - cheesy, garlicky, and looks festive for any holiday gathering!
This pull-apart Christmas tree bread has stolen hearts on Pinterest with its oozing cheese, golden crust, and holiday charm. With just 4 ingredients, it's a party staple your family will beg for every year!
Imagine a golden-brown Christmas tree made of soft bread balls, each infused with garlic and melted cheese. One bite and you'll understand why this recipe is the talk of every holiday gathering.
Perfect for holiday parties, family dinners, or even as a festive gift, this bread combines the convenience of easy preparation with the wow factor of a professional baker's creation.
The best part? Your kids will think you're the coolest parent ever when they see this masterpiece on the table. It's a guaranteed conversation starter and photo op at every holiday event.
From its garlicky aroma to the stretchy cheese strands when you pull it apart, this recipe delivers all the holiday cheer you could ask for - without the complicated techniques.
Why This Recipe Works
Easy to Make
Just 4 ingredients and 45 minutes of hands-on time - no special equipment needed. The dough is simple to assemble and requires minimal kneading.
Make-Ahead Magic
You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to 3 months. Perfect for busy hosts!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and melted mozzarella creates a flavor profile that's both comforting and exciting for guests of all ages.
Festive Presentation
The tree shape and golden-brown color make this bread a stunning centerpiece that doubles as delicious food. Guests will be taking photos before they even get to taste!
Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe
Cheesy, garlicky, and festive - the ultimate holiday appetizer
Ingredients
- - 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- - ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- - ¼ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, grated
- - 2 cups (240g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 tsp dried oregano
- - ½ tsp salt
- - ¼ tsp black pepper
- - 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- - 1 tsp active dry yeast
Instructions
Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
💡 Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure milk is at the right temperature - too hot and it'll kill the yeast!
Mix Dough: Add flour, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms. Add butter pieces and knead for 5 minutes.
💡 For easier mixing, use a stand mixer with a dough hook. If doing by hand, dust your work surface with flour.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
💡 For faster rising, place the bowl near a warm oven or on top of a preheated oven (turned off).
Form the Tree: On a floured surface, roll dough into a rectangle. Spread mozzarella evenly, then roll up tightly. Cut into 12 equal slices.
💡 Use a sharp knife or dental floss to make clean cuts without squishing the dough.
Second Rise: Arrange slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish in a tree shape. Let rise for 30 minutes.
💡 If making ahead, refrigerate at this stage for up to 24 hours.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
💡 Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.
Serve: Let cool slightly, then pull apart the pieces and serve warm with marinara sauce.
💡 For extra gooey cheese, let the bread rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour
Provides structure and texture to the bread. You can substitute with bread flour for a chewier result, or all-purpose gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Substitutions: Bread flour, gluten-free flour blend
Unsalted Butter
Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb. Use salted butter if you prefer a saltier flavor, but reduce the added salt accordingly.
Substitutions: Margarine (unsalted), coconut oil for a dairy-free option
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a savory depth of flavor. You can use any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a vegan version, use nutritional yeast.
Substitutions: Pecorino Romano, nutritional yeast
Mozzarella Cheese
Creates the gooey, stretchy center when heated. Use shredded mozzarella for best results. Fresh mozzarella will release too much moisture.
Substitutions: Low-moisture mozzarella, provolone
Garlic
Adds aromatic flavor. You can use garlic powder (1/2 tsp) or pre-minced garlic from a jar. For a milder flavor, use roasted garlic.
Substitutions: Garlic powder, roasted garlic
Pro Tips for Perfect Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
Optimal Yeast Activation
Use lukewarm milk (110°F/45°C) to activate the yeast. Too hot and you'll kill the yeast, too cold and it won't activate properly. Test with your finger - it should feel warm but not hot.
Perfect Dough Consistency
The dough should be slightly sticky but not wet. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. If too wet, add flour. The windowpane test is the gold standard - stretch a small piece of dough until it becomes translucent without tearing.
Make-Ahead Magic
You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After step 4, refrigerate the dough in an airtight container. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before proceeding.
Baking Perfection
For a golden crust, you can brush the dough with a little melted butter before baking. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning. If the top is browning too quickly, cover with aluminum foil.
Variations & Customizations
Vegan Version
Use vegan butter, nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and vegan mozzarella. The dough can be made with a plant-based flour blend.
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Use xanthan gum if your blend doesn't contain it. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
Cheesy Overload
Add extra mozzarella or mix in other cheeses like cheddar or Gouda for a more intense flavor. You can also add a layer of cream cheese for a richer texture.
Herb Lover's Version
Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil. You can also add some chopped green onions or parsley for extra flavor and color.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeño to the dough for a spicy twist. You can also serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
Sweet Version
Replace Parmesan with cinnamon and sugar, and use a sweet cheese like cream cheese or mascarpone. Top with powdered sugar and serve with fruit preserves instead of marinara.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Classic Marinara: The sweet and tangy sauce balances the rich cheese perfectly
- Garlic Butter: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the already garlicky bread
- Holiday Wreath Salad: A fresh, colorful salad with cranberries and pecans complements the richness
- Cheese Board: Pair with a selection of cheeses, cured meats, and olives for a festive platter
🍷 Drink Pairings:
This rich, cheesy bread pairs well with full-bodied wines like Chardonnay or Zinfandel. For non-alcoholic options, try spiced apple cider or a rich stout beer.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After step 4, refrigerate the dough in an airtight container. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before proceeding.
Freezer Storage
The assembled bread (after step 5) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place in an airtight container or freezer bag. To bake from frozen, add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating Instructions
For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. You can also microwave individual pieces for 20-30 seconds for a quick snack.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cheese may firm up in the fridge, so reheat before serving.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My dough is too sticky. What should I do?
A: Gradually add flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes manageable. Don't over-flour or the bread will be dry.
Q: The bread is too dry. What went wrong?
A: You might have overbaked it. Check the internal temperature - it should be 190°F (88°C). The cheese should be melted but not dry.
Q: Can I make this in a bread machine?
A: Yes! Use the dough setting. After the machine completes the cycle, follow steps 4-7 for shaping and baking.
Q: How do I get the perfect tree shape?
A: Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure the dough rectangle is 18x12 inches. Cut the slices evenly to create the tree shape. A sharp knife or dental floss works best.
Final Thoughts
This pull-apart Christmas tree bread is more than just a recipe - it's a holiday tradition in the making. With its perfect combination of flavors and stunning presentation, it's sure to become a favorite at every gathering.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a show-stopping dish that will impress even the most discerning guests. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a special treat, this bread is the perfect choice.
So go ahead, give this recipe a try. Your family and friends will thank you for the delicious, festive creation that brings joy and warmth to every holiday table. Happy baking!
