Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread captures that spirit perfectly! Imagine a warm, golden-brown bread shaped like a Christmas tree, bursting with gooey, melty cheese and sprinkled with fragrant Italian seasoning. This delightful centerpiece is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to bring some holiday cheer to your family dinner, this dish will certainly impress your guests and fill your home with delicious aromas.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 1 festive bread
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get the excitement of baking started right!
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, feeling the dough stretch and soften under your hands.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, carefully cut the dough into a shape resembling a Christmas tree.
- Generously sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over one half of the tree shape, avoiding the edges to prevent spilling.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the cheese, pressing the edges firmly to seal in that delightful cheesy goodness.
- With a small knife, cut slits along the sides of the folded dough to mimic tree branches, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg, giving it a beautiful golden sheen, then drizzle olive oil over the top for an extra touch of richness.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and a dash of sea salt to elevate the flavors in every bite.
- Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns a glorious golden brown.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar or gouda can add a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with the Italian seasoning. Additionally, if you have kids, this is a great activity to do together — let them help shape the tree and decorate it with cheese!
Cooking Techniques
When rolling out the pizza dough, aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch for that perfect chewiness. Be sure not to rush through the sealing process after folding the dough; this step is crucial for keeping all that melted cheese contained within. Also, cutting the slits for the branches not only enhances the look but allows steam to escape, avoiding any sogginess.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe.
How should I store leftovers? If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!
Can this be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the tree up to the baking stage and refrigerate it. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is bound to become a beloved tradition in your home during the holiday season. Its delightful shape and rich flavors make it a perfect snack or appetizer for any festive gathering. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the joy of sharing this cheerful bread together. Happy baking and happy holidays!