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"Golden cheesy pull apart Christmas bread shaped festively, topped with melted cheese and herbs."

Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Bread Recipe | Festive Holiday Party Appetizer

"This cheesy pull apart Christmas bread recipe is festive, gooey, and irresistible. Shaped for the holidays and loaded with melted cheese, it’s the perfect appetizer for Christmas parties or cozy family dinners."
Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Appetizer, Festive centerpiece, Party Snack
Cuisine Holiday Fusion, Italian-inspired
Servings 8
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Pastry brush
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb pizza dough (or biscuit dough)
  • 1½ cups mozzarella (or cheddar/brie), cubed
  • 4 tbsp butter, melted
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan (optional topping)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Dough Balls: Divide dough into small pieces. Flatten each, place a cube of cheese inside, and seal edges.
  • Arrange Shape: Place dough balls on parchment-lined sheet in a Christmas tree or wreath pattern.
  • Make Glaze: Mix melted butter, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Brush over dough balls.
  • Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Finish: Brush with extra garlic butter and sprinkle Parmesan.
  • Serve: Present as centerpiece. Guests pull apart pieces and enjoy gooey cheese inside.

Notes

  • Don’t overstuff: Too much cheese can leak during baking.
  • Bake on parchment: Makes removal and serving easier.
  • Variations: Try spinach-artichoke filling, brie with cranberry, or vegan cashew cheese.
  • Storage: Keep in airtight container for 2–3 days. Reheat in oven for crispness.
Keyword cheesy pull apart, Christmas bread, Festive Baking, garlic butter bread, holiday appetizer