Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic-Butter Christmas Tree Bread

introduction

This Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic-Butter Christmas Tree Bread is a festive, shareable appetizer that doubles as a centerpiece for holiday gatherings. Soft, buttery dough pieces are brushed with garlicky herb butter, piled into a tree shape, and finished with melty cheese — perfect for dipping and passing around. For a close reference and photo guide, see the original recipe page for inspiration.

why make this recipe

• Eye-catching and festive — it instantly elevates any holiday spread.
• Easy to assemble with store-bought pizza dough and simple pantry ingredients.
• Pull-apart format is perfect for groups and encourages communal eating.
• Versatile: serve with marinara, pesto, or your favorite dip for crowd-pleasing flavor.

how to make Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic-Butter Christmas Tree Bread

Create the tree shape on a baking sheet, brush every piece generously with garlic-butter, and layer cheese on top so each bite pulls apart with gooey goodness. Start by rolling and cutting the dough, then dip pieces into the herb butter before arranging them into a triangular tree silhouette. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly and bake until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients :

• 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Marinara or pesto (for serving)

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into small pieces.
3. In a bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip the pizza dough pieces in the garlic-butter mixture and arrange them on a baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of the dough pieces.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve warm with marinara or pesto for dipping.

how to serve Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic-Butter Christmas Tree Bread

Serve it warm on a large platter as a centerpiece. Provide small bowls of marinara and pesto for dipping, and place small plates and napkins nearby so guests can pull off pieces easily. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for color.

how to store Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic-Butter Christmas Tree Bread

Cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. For best texture, avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soggy.

tips to make Cheesy Pull Apart Garlic-Butter Christmas Tree Bread

• Cut dough pieces uniformly so they bake evenly.
• Keep extra garlic-butter on hand to brush on before serving for added flavor.
• Use a mix of cheeses (mozzarella + cheddar) for milky stretch and sharp flavor.
• If you want a sturdier tree shape, arrange dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet with a light cardboard cone template underneath (remove before baking).
• For extra crispness, bake a couple minutes longer, watching so the cheese doesn’t burn.

variation (if any)

• Add cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or pepperoni pieces between layers for a meaty version.
• Make it herb-forward by adding rosemary or thyme instead of basil.
• Swap marinara for a creamy garlic dip or add a sprinkle of parmesan and red pepper flakes for a spicy finish.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the tree and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before baking; brush with any remaining butter and add a touch more cheese before baking.

Q: Can I use homemade dough?
A: Yes — homemade pizza or dinner roll dough will work and can add extra flavor and texture.

Q: How do I keep the bottom pieces from getting soggy?
A: Bake on a preheated baking sheet and avoid over-brushing the very bottom pieces; a light hand with the butter keeps the base crisp.

Conclusion

For another detailed take and step-by-step photos, check out Healthy Little Peach’s pull-apart Christmas tree bread recipe for inspiration and serving ideas.