This fun pull-apart bread is shaped like a Christmas tree and filled with delicious pesto. It’s a merry treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Honestly, nothing says holiday cheer like tearing apart a warm, cheesy tree. I love serving it with extra pesto for dipping—it’s a festive flavor explosion! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe quick and easy, but you can also use homemade bread dough. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are gluten-free puff pastry products available!
Basil Pesto: Fresh basil pesto adds vibrant flavor, but if you don’t have any, try sun-dried tomato pesto or even spinach pesto for a twist. Nut-free pestos made with sunflower seeds are also great options!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that stretchy cheese pull, while Parmesan adds a tasty bite. Substitute with any cheese you love, like cheddar or Gouda! Just keep in mind the melting characteristics for best results.
Egg Wash: The egg wash gives a beautiful golden color. If you’re vegan, you can use almond milk or non-dairy milk with a bit of corn syrup for a similar effect.
How Do I Make Sure My Tree Shape Holds Together?
The key to a good tree shape is making clean cuts and not slicing all the way through. Here’s how:
- After placing the second sheet of pastry, trim the edges to create a rectangle.
- Cut into strips, leaving an inch at the top uncut so the pieces stay connected.
- When folding, alternate the strips carefully to form the tree without breaking them apart.
Taking your time with these steps helps make a beautiful pull-apart bread that impresses and tastes amazing!
Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 sheets puff pastry (or homemade bread dough, rolled out)
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Finish:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for brushing)
- Dried oregano or Italian seasoning, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This festive pull-apart bread will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 40 minutes to deliciousness! It’s perfect for a last-minute holiday snack or party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to help prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the First Layer:
Once the oven is ready, lay one sheet of puff pastry on the prepared baking sheet. Spread a nice, even layer of basil pesto over the pastry. Yum! Make sure to cover all the edges.
3. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Now sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto layer, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese for that extra flavor kick!
4. Layer It Up:
Next, take your second sheet of puff pastry and carefully place it on top of the cheese layer. Press down gently to seal the two sheets around the edges.
5. Cut into Strips:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, trim the edges to create a neat rectangle. Then, cut the rectangle into strips about 1-inch wide, making sure to stop about 1 inch from the top. This keeps the “tree” connected.
6. Form the Tree Shape:
Now comes the fun part! Fold the strips alternately to the left and right, twisting them slightly. This creates that lovely tree shape, with layers of pesto and cheese showing between the twists!
7. Brush with Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, beat the egg with a splash of water. Brush this egg wash all over the bread to give it a beautiful golden finish as it bakes.
8. Season for Flavor:
If you like, sprinkle some dried oregano or Italian seasoning on top for added flavor, along with a little more Parmesan.
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is puffed up, golden brown, and the cheese is all melty and bubbly.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, pull apart the warm, cheesy bread and enjoy it with extra pesto for dipping!
This festive pull-apart bread is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering, making sharing and enjoying delicious flavors a breeze!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is great for that gooey cheese pull, you can substitute it with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or a mix of your favorites. Just be mindful of their melting properties to ensure they blend well.
Can I Make This Bread in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bread up to the point of baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through for the best texture!
Can I Use Homemade Pesto?
Definitely! Homemade pesto adds a fresh flavor that enhances the bread. Just make sure it’s a good consistency to spread easily, and feel free to customize the ingredients to your liking!
