Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread
This Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is the kind of dish that brings everyone together, turning the table into a shared experience. Soft, fluffy pieces of bread are filled with savory pepperoni and gooey, melted cheese, creating a satisfying pull with every tear. As it bakes, the bread becomes golden and aromatic, then gets brushed with rich butter blended with vibrant pesto and topped with even more cheese for a warm, indulgent finish. Each bite delivers a comforting balance of buttery, cheesy, and herb-forward flavors that feel both familiar and festive. Perfect for passing around during holiday gatherings, this pull-apart bread has all the makings of a new Christmas tradition—easy to share, fun to eat, and guaranteed to disappear before the night is over.
INGREDIENTS
· 1 lb pizza dough —SGC# 207492
· 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese —SGC# 059365
· 1/3 c chopped pepperoni —SGC# 216757
· ½ tsp basil pesto —SGC# 214024
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese —SGC# 055179
· 3 tbsp melted butter —SGC# 054023
· 2 cloves garlic, minced —SGC# 124701
· 1 tbsp fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried) —SGC# 193133
· ½ tsp Italian seasoning —SGC# 181550
· ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) —SGC# 181389
· ½ tsp salt —SGC# 052100
Marinara or pesto sauce — for dipping
DIRECTIONS
Preheat & Prep
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Shape the Dough and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle (about 12x16 inches).
4. Cut into 36 small squares (roughly 1½-inch pieces).
5. Place 1 teaspoon of mozzarella in the center of each piece and pinch to seal into a ball.
6. Form the Christmas Tree
7. Arrange the dough balls seam-side down on the parchment in a Christmas tree shape — start with one ball at the top and make each lower row a bit wider (about 6–7 rows total).
8. Use remaining dough balls for the trunk or extra rows.
9. Brush lightly with half of the melted butter.
10. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
11. While it bakes, combine remaining melted butter, garlic, parsley, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt.
12. When bread comes out of the oven, brush mix generously with the garlic butter.