Introduction
Get ready to impress your friends and family this holiday season with a delightful Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread! This festive treat not only looks spectacular but also offers a deliciously cheesy flavor that’s perfect for any gathering. With its warm, golden-brown exterior and gooey center, this bread will surely become a holiday favorite. It’s festive, fun to make, and even more enjoyable to eat. Let’s dive into creating this culinary masterpiece that will bring smiles to every face around your table!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 1 Christmas tree bread
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large triangle shape, mimicking a festive tree.
- With a sharp knife, cut the triangle into strips, ensuring you leave a small point at the top to represent the tip of the tree.
- Spread the luscious pesto sauce evenly across the dough, taking care to leave about an inch around the edges.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto for that melty, cheesy goodness.
- Starting from the bottom, fold each strip at an angle towards the center to shape the branches of your tree.
- Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg, giving it a beautiful golden color as it bakes, then drizzle olive oil over it for that added richness.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt over the top for an aromatic and flavorful finish.
- Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and irresistibly inviting.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving warm.
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, feel free to customize your cheese blend or add other herbs to the dough for additional flavor. Serve your Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread with a side of marinara for dipping, making it a delightful appetizer. And remember, this is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so gather your loved ones and indulge in its warm, cheesy goodness!
Cooking Techniques
To achieve a perfect rise and golden color, ensure that your oven is fully preheated before placing the bread inside. Rolling out the dough evenly will help maintain a consistent cooking time throughout the entire piece. When folding the branches, don’t worry about perfection; the rustic look adds to its charm. If you have leftover dough, try making small stars with cookie cutters for added decoration!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pizza dough? Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a convenient option that saves time and still results in a delicious bread.
How do I store leftovers? You can store any leftover bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for that freshly-baked taste.
Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using it to make the Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Christmas Tree Bread is not just a treat; it’s a centerpiece that brings warmth and joy to any holiday gathering. Its inviting aromas, delightful flavors, and festive appearance will surely leave your guests raving. Gather around and enjoy the spirit of the season with every cheesy bite. Happy baking!