Oh, my friends, gather ’round because I have a real treat for you this holiday season! I can almost smell the buttery, cheesy goodness wafting through the air just thinking about it. Let me introduce you to my favorite festive masterpiece: Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread!
Every year as Christmas rolls around, I pull this recipe out of my holiday cookbook, and it never fails to impress. It’s a fun and interactive dish that brings everyone together. I remember one year, I made this for a holiday gathering, and my family went wild over it! The way the cheesy goodness stretches and pulls apart when you dig in? Let’s just say it creates a lot of laughter and happy chatter around the table. Who knew bread could be so festive and fun?
## What’s in Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread?
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you’re bringing to your holiday table:
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: This makes for an easy and quick base, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can whip up a homemade dough! My favorite brand is Pillsbury for that classic fluffy texture.
Unsalted Butter: The melted butter enriches the dough and carries those delightful flavors through the entire dish. Always opt for unsalted so you can control the saltiness.
Mozzarella Cheese: It’s all about that stringy, gooey goodness! I prefer using fresh mozzarella that I shred myself, but pre-shredded works just as well if you’re in a rush.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely salty richness to the bread. Plus, it gives it a delightful crispy topping as it bakes.
Garlic Powder: Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better! It infuses the dough with incomparable flavor.
Dried Italian Herbs: This mix of oregano, basil, and thyme brings in that comforting, herbaceous aroma that is oh-so-Christmasy!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the final product.
Rosemary Sprigs: These are for decoration, to mimic the branches of our Christmas tree! They also add an earthy aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
Marinara Sauce: The perfect dipping companion for this cheesy delight! It brings that tangy touch which balances the richness of the cheese.
## Is Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health. This dish is definitely a treat—perfect for a holiday gathering, but let’s not kid ourselves, it’s indulgent!
Biscuit Dough: Pre-packaged dough is quick and easy, but it can be a bit high on fats and preservatives, so maybe save this for special occasions!
Cheeses: While cheese is packed with calcium and protein, it can also be high in saturated fat. Moderation is key—enjoy in small amounts, especially if you’re watching your diet.
Butter: Like cheese, melted butter adds creaminess, but it’s calorie-dense. Again, a little goes a long way when indulging in this festive treat.
If you’re looking to lighten this up, consider using part-skim cheese, or reduce the butter a little (though we all know the gooeyness comes from the butter!).
## Gather Your Ingredients
Get ready to pull apart this festive wonder! Here’s what you need for about 6-8 servings:
– 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (or use homemade dough)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2-3 rosemary sprigs (for decoration)
– Marinara sauce (for dipping)
– Salt and pepper to taste
## How to Make Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread?
Let’s get our hands a little cheesy, shall we? Here’s how to whip this up:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. You don’t want any sticky surprises later!
2. Open the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. This will create those adorable little pieces we’ll be pulling apart later.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and let the aroma fill your kitchen!
4. Toss in the biscuit pieces and coat them well in that buttery goodness.
5. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, gently folding them into the buttery biscuit mix until everything is combined.
6. On your parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the biscuit pieces in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting from the bottom and tapering upward. Don’t worry about it being perfect—just try to capture that tree shape!
7. Sprinkle any leftover cheese on top and add chopped parsley for that festive touch.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through. Your kitchen will smell divine!
9. Once baked, let it cool slightly before decorating with fresh rosemary sprigs for those realistic tree branches.
10. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, and watch everyone dig in!
## Festive Tips for Enjoyment
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out herbs or even add some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. Not a fan of marinara? Try serving it with a creamy ranch or garlic butter dip instead!
And remember, this pull-apart bread isn’t just for decorating your table; it’s perfect for a cozy night in or a fun appetizer for gatherings.
I hope you all feel inspired to whip up this delicious Christmas Tree Pull Apart Bread! It’s sure to be the star of the show and will warm everyone’s hearts (and bellies) this season. Don’t forget to take pictures and share your cheesy creations with me—I’d love to see it! Happy baking!
