Create holiday magic with this festive, dippable bread in 40 minutes!
This Christmas tree-shaped pull-apart bread is a showstopper that doubles as a party game. With 4 variations, you'll find the perfect version for every guest - from classic garlic butter to vegan olive oil glaze.
Whether you're hosting a holiday dinner or a cozy family gathering, this recipe delivers crowd-pleasing flavor and festive presentation. The dough balls puff up beautifully in the oven and pull apart with satisfying stretchiness.
Each variation takes just 25 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to bake, making it perfect for last-minute holiday entertaining. The classic version features gooey mozzarella strands, while the vegan option uses olive oil and nutritional yeast for rich flavor.
For seniors or guests with dietary needs, simply adjust portion size, use softer cheeses, or substitute butter blends. The make-ahead dough can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring stress-free holiday baking.
Pair with marinara, herb-infused olive oil, or aioli for dipping. The festive tree shape adds visual appeal, while the warm, garlicky aroma fills your kitchen with holiday cheer.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
Ready in 40 minutes with minimal prep. No special equipment needed - just a baking sheet and your hands!
💰 Cost-Effective
Uses pantry staples like flour, cheese, and olive oil. The base dough works for all 4 variations!
👥 Inclusive Options
Vegan, gluten-free, and low-sodium versions available. Perfect for mixed-dietary gatherings.
🌟 Festive Presentation
The Christmas tree shape adds holiday charm while keeping the bread organized and easy to serve.
Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Garlic Bread
4 Festive Variations for Holiday Feasts
🛒 Ingredients
- - 3 cups all-purpose flour
- - 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- - 1 tbsp sugar
- - 1 tsp salt
- - 1 cup warm milk
- - 1/2 cup melted butter
👨🍳 Instructions
Activate Yeast: Mix warm milk, 1 tbsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
💡 Add 1/2 tsp honey for extra yeast activation.
Mix Dough: Combine flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Add yeast mixture and butter. Knead until smooth.
💡 Use a stand mixer with dough hook for easier mixing.
First Rise: Cover dough and let rise in warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
💡 Place in a warm oven (turned off) with a bowl of hot water.
Shape Tree: Divide dough into 12-15 balls. Arrange in tree shape on parchment-lined baking sheet.
💡 For seniors, use larger balls (12 total) for easier handling.
Second Rise: Cover and let rest 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
💡 For make-ahead, refrigerate shaped dough overnight.
Bake: Brush with garlic butter (see variations). Bake 12-15 minutes until golden.
💡 For travel-safe, par-bake 8 minutes then freeze in airtight bags.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour
Provides structure and chewiness. For gluten-free, use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Substitutions: Bread flour for extra chew, whole wheat flour for nutty flavor
Active Dry Yeast
Activates the dough for rise. Use instant yeast if preferred (skip proofing step).
Substitutions: Quick-rise yeast (same quantity), sourdough starter (1/2 cup active starter)
Milk
Adds richness and softness. For vegan, use oat, almond, or soy milk.
Substitutions: Water (less rich), buttermilk (more tender)
Butter
Creates rich garlic butter glaze. For vegan, use olive oil or vegan butter.
Substitutions: Coconut oil (adds tropical flavor), ghee (nutty taste)
Pro Tips for Perfect Pull-Apart Bread
🧂 Flavor Boost
Add 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp chopped fresh garlic to the dough for extra flavor.
❄️ Make-Ahead
Shape dough, freeze on baking sheet, then transfer to bag. Bake frozen 22-25 minutes.
🌿 Herb Infusion
Mix 1 tbsp dried herbs (rosemary, oregano) into the garlic butter before brushing.
🔥 Reheating
Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave 15-20 seconds.
Variations & Customizations
Classic Mozzarella-Garlic
Use shredded mozzarella and melted butter mixed with minced garlic, parsley, and Parmesan.
Pizza Pepperoni
Add pepperoni slices and marinara dip. Brush with garlic butter mixed with oregano.
Herby Feta-Olive
Mix crumbled feta with chopped Kalamata olives and fresh rosemary in the garlic butter.
Vegan Olive-Oil
Use olive oil instead of butter and add nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor. Top with marinated artichokes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Classic: Warm marinara for dipping
- Herby: Aioli with chopped fresh herbs
- Vegan: Balsamic reduction for drizzling
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with sparkling apple cider for a festive touch or Chardonnay for richer versions.
Make-Ahead & Storage Instructions
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare dough and shape 24 hours ahead. Freeze shaped dough for up to 3 months.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled bread in airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.
Freezer Storage
Freeze baked bread in ziplock bags for up to 2 months. Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Reheating Instructions
Use oven for best results (300°F/150°C for 5-7 minutes). Avoid microwave for crispiness.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Dough too sticky?
A: Add flour 1 tbsp at a time until manageable. Cold hands help with shaping.
Q: Bread too dry?
A: Brush with extra garlic butter before baking. Add 1/4 cup milk to dough for moister result.
Q: Can I make smaller pieces?
A: Yes! Divide dough into 24-30 small balls for bite-sized portions. Adjust baking time to 10-12 minutes.
Q: How to prevent burning?
A: Cover with foil if browning too quickly. Use light-colored baking sheets for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
This festive pull-apart bread brings joy to any holiday table with its playful presentation and customizable flavors. The classic version with gooey mozzarella strands is always a hit, but the vegan olive oil version proves this recipe works for every guest.
With make-ahead capabilities and simple preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy hosts. Whether you're serving seniors with larger pieces or kids with mini versions, the pull-apart format makes it accessible for all. Pair with your favorite dips and wines for a complete holiday experience.
