Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Festive Christmas Tree Pesto Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 65 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 38 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A fun and festive pull-apart bread shaped like a Christmas tree, filled with flavorful pesto and gooey mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make appetizer is perfect for holiday gatherings and party celebrations, offering a delicious combination of herbaceous pesto and melty cheese enveloped in soft pizza dough.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 2 cans refrigerated pizza dough or homemade dough

Filling

  • 1/2 cup pesto
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Topping

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Garnish

  • Grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature while you prepare the bread.
  2. Prepare the dough pieces: Roll out the refrigerated or homemade pizza dough into a large flat sheet. Cut the dough into small, equally sized pieces, perfect for forming into balls.
  3. Fill and shape the dough balls: Spread a spoonful of pesto and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella on each piece of dough. Fold the dough around the filling to form neat balls, sealing the pesto and cheese inside.
  4. Arrange the bread tree: On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange the pesto-stuffed dough balls into the shape of a Christmas tree, starting with a wider base and tapering towards the top for a festive look.
  5. Add toppings: Mix olive oil and garlic powder, then brush this mixture generously over the arranged dough balls to enhance flavor and help them brown evenly.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish and serve: Optionally, sprinkle grated parmesan and fresh basil over the baked bread tree for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation. Serve warm with marinara sauce or extra pesto as a dipping accompaniment.

Notes

  • Serve with marinara sauce or additional pesto for dipping to enhance the flavors.
  • Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time on the day of the event.
  • Ensure the balls are sealed properly to prevent pesto and cheese from leaking during baking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian Inspired, Holiday

Find it online: https://myhomemadecooking.com/festive-christmas-tree-pesto-bread-recipe/