This fun and festive pull-apart bread looks like a Christmas tree! It’s made with soft, fluffy dough and delicious pesto that gives a tasty surprise with every pull.
Who doesn’t love tearing into a warm, cheesy bread? I get a kick out of watching everyone go for the “star” at the top. It’s the best part, don’t you think? 🎄
Making this is a breeze! Just roll, cut, and layer—perfect for holiday gatherings when you need something tasty and easy to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Round Loaf of Bread: A crusty bread like sourdough or Italian works best for texture. If you can’t find those, any good-quality loaf will do. You might even experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free bread if you’re looking for healthier or dietary options.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is quick and easy, but making your own can elevate the flavor! If you have nut allergies, try a sun-dried tomato spread or a simple herb oil instead for a similar texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: The stretchy and gooey nature of mozzarella is unbeatable here. For a twist, consider using a mix of cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for a zesty kick.
Grated Parmesan: Adds a nice salty crunch. You can swap this with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option that still brings a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Bread Stays Intact While Cutting?
To slice your bread without cutting all the way through, make sure to use a serrated knife. Take your time to cut deep, but stop just before the bottom crust. This will help keep the loaf together, giving you those perfect pull-apart sections.
- Slice vertically, then horizontally to create a crisscross pattern.
- Gently pull apart the segments a little; this makes space for stuffing without breaking the loaf apart.
- Keep it steady—don’t hurry the cutting process!
What’s the Best Way to Get Cheese and Pesto in Every Bite?
The key to a delicious pull-apart bread is ensuring you get that amazing pesto and gooey cheese in every piece. After cutting the bread, be generous with your pesto mixture and make sure to get some into each slice. Stuff the cheese in well, and it will melt beautifully as it bakes!
- Brush the pesto mixture into all the cuts.
- Push the cheese deep into the gaps—don’t be shy!
- Remember: More cheese = more yummy pulls!
Enjoy making this showstopper for your holiday gatherings. Everyone will love pulling apart their cheesy pieces!
Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 round loaf of crusty bread (such as sourdough or Italian bread)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation, plus 15-20 minutes of baking time. Altogether, you can whip this up in about 30 minutes or less, making it a quick and festive addition to your holiday celebrations!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You can line a baking tray or board with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or simply place the bread directly on a nice wooden cutting board—whichever you prefer!
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your round loaf and slice it gently in a crisscross pattern. Make cuts vertically and horizontally about 3/4 of the way through the loaf, ensuring you don’t cut all the way to the bottom. This will keep your bread intact for that beautiful pull-apart effect, resembling a Christmas tree!
3. Create Space for Filling:
Once the bread is cut, use your fingers to gently pull apart the segments slightly. This creates little pockets that we’ll fill with delicious pesto and cheese.
4. Mix the Pesto and Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and basil pesto. This mixture will add flavor to your bread, so be generous! Brush or spoon the mixture generously between all the cuts in the bread, making sure to coat all the little nooks and crannies.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese into the gaps between the slices, pushing it down to ensure it gets into every part of the loaf. Don’t hold back—more cheese means more fun pull-apart pieces!
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan:
Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of your beautifully stuffed bread. This will create a nice crust and add even more flavor when it melts.
7. Bake:
Place your stuffed bread on the prepared tray or directly on the board and pop it into the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden, and the bread is warmed through.
8. Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top, along with some freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color, if you like.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, festive Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread right away! Let everyone enjoy pulling apart their own cheesy, pesto-flavored pieces from the tree. It’s sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings!
Happy baking and enjoy the delicious gooeyness of this festive treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for that stretchy texture, you can mix in cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors. Just ensure they melt well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover pull-apart bread can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual pieces for a few seconds.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bread (cut and stuff it) a few hours in advance and then cover it with foil and refrigerate. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve to enjoy that fresh, warm, cheesy goodness!
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add cooked spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even cooked sausage for a heartier version. Just keep in mind that moist ingredients can make the bread soggy, so use them sparingly.
