Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a centerpiece that’s as delightful to eat as it is to look at, this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe will absolutely steal the show. Imagine soft, golden bread bursting with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, twisted into the perfect festive tree shape that brings extra charm to your holiday table. It’s a fun, comforting treat that’s simple to make but so full of flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a holiday favorite everyone asks for year after year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe lies in using simple, well-loved ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays its part in creating that fluffy texture, melty cheese filling, and aromatic crust that’s just irresistible.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: This gives the bread its structure and soft crumb, perfect for a tender bite.
• 1 packet active dry yeast: The key to a light and airy bread with a lovely rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness.
• 1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and binds the dough ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the bread moist.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that irresistible melty stretch inside the bread twists.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a punch of umami and a slightly nutty flavor.
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano: Sprinkled in for a savory herbal note that complements the cheese perfectly.

How to Make Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by combining the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a bowl. This step wakes up the yeast, which should bubble and foam slightly after about 5 minutes, signaling it’s ready to work its magic on your dough.

Step 2: Combine the Dough Ingredients

Next, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir it all together until the ingredients just come together to form a dough. This mixture will soon transform into a soft, elastic bread base.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it by hand for approximately 5 minutes. This kneading develops the gluten, giving your bread that perfect chewy and fluffy texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for one hour. During this time, the dough will rise and double in size, becoming light and airy.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the perfect temperature for baking your festive bread.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle—this will be your canvas for layering on the cheesy goodness and shaping the bread.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Shape the Tree

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the dough, then carefully fold and twist the dough to form the iconic Christmas tree shape. This twisting also creates layers of melty cheese throughout every bite.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place your beautifully shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and allow it to rise for another 30 minutes so it becomes even fluffier before baking.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the tree in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until it’s beautifully golden brown with a crisp crust and melted cheese peeking through the folds.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool slightly on a rack before serving. This resting time helps the cheese set just enough to keep the layers intact while still being deliciously gooey.

How to Serve Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Dress your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green that echoes the holiday theme. A light brush of garlic butter right after baking can add even more irresistible aroma and flavor.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a warm bowl of marinara sauce or a fresh salad bursting with vinaigrette. It’s also a crowd-pleaser alongside soups like tomato basil or creamy pumpkin for a cozy holiday meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Make mealtime extra special by placing the bread on a festive wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces like pesto, olive tapenade, or spicy arrabbiata. Adding tiny edible decorations like cherry tomatoes or olives can mimic ornaments on your edible Christmas tree.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and tender for up to 2 days, perfect for snacking or a quick breakfast treat.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, slice your bread, wrap it well, and freeze portions. When you want a festive quick bite, just thaw at room temperature or use a toaster oven to revive that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crispy and the texture perfect.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone to customize the flavor profile while keeping that perfect gooey texture inside.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Yes, letting the dough rise twice ensures your bread has the soft, fluffy texture that’s light and enjoyable, and helps the shape hold up beautifully during baking.

Can I add herbs to the dough itself?

Definitely! Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme directly into the dough adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cheesy filling and makes the bread even more aromatic.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can use instant yeast as a substitute, but you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it in warm water first, which actually speeds up the process.

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out during baking?

Make sure to press the dough layers firmly together when shaping the tree and avoid overfilling. The slight folding and twisting help keep the cheese sealed inside as it melts.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about pulling a warm, fragrant Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread Recipe out of the oven during the holidays. It’s festive, fun, and full of flavor—a perfect addition to your seasonal gatherings or cozy nights in. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it disappears at your holiday table. Your friends and family will thank you!

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