Description
This festive Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread is a showstopping holiday appetizer! Made with soft, buttery dough filled with gooey melted cheese, it’s baked until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant. Perfect for sharing around the table — simply pull, dip, and enjoy the cheesy goodness with every bite.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup warm milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
2 tsp instant yeast
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Fresh parsley or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
Activate the yeast: In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Make the dough: Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Cover the dough and let it rest for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the bread: Punch down the dough and divide into small balls. Flatten each ball, add a pinch of mozzarella, and seal to form a stuffed ball.
Arrange: Place the cheese-filled balls in the shape of a Christmas tree on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second rise: Cover and let rest for 20 minutes.
Bake: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder if desired. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serve: Brush with extra butter and garnish with parsley or rosemary for a festive look.
Notes
You can fill the bread with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a mix for extra flavor.
Add small pieces of cooked spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful touch.
Best served warm with marinara or garlic butter dip.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 260
- Carbohydrates: 30
- Protein: 9