Spinach and Cheese Pull Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

Christmas celebrations call for festive and delicious dishes, and a Spinach and Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. This delightful recipe combines the soft, pillowy texture of homemade bread with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, shaped into a stunning Christmas tree. It’s not only visually impressive but also irresistibly tasty, making it a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, dinner party, or simply want to add a touch of creativity to your seasonal baking, this recipe is an excellent choice. Let’s explore how to create this masterpiece step by step.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the Dough:
   • By Hand: Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • By Mixer: Use a dough hook on medium speed for 5–6 minutes.
5. Let It Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Sauté the Spinach:
   Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a teaspoon of olive oil, and sauté the chopped spinach until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Mix the Cheeses:
   In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the sautéed spinach, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Christmas Tree Bread

1. Divide the Dough:
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 32 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
2. Fill the Dough Balls:
   Flatten each ball into a small circle, place a teaspoon of the spinach and cheese filling in the center, and pinch the edges to seal. Roll into a smooth ball.
3. Shape the Christmas Tree:
   On a parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the filled dough balls in a tree shape:
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   • Start with a single ball at the top.
   • Add rows, increasing by one ball per row, until the bottom row has 7 balls.
   • Use two dough balls for the trunk.
4. Second Rise:
   Cover the assembled tree with a damp towel and let it rise for 20–30 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush with Egg Wash:
   Beat the egg and brush it over the surface of the dough balls for a golden finish.
3. Bake:
   Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Garlic Butter Topping:
   Combine melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Brush this mixture over the warm bread.
2. Garnish:
   Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the tree for extra flavor and a festive look.
3. Cool Slightly:
   Allow the bread to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

Dough Tips:

• Ensure the water for the yeast is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• Allow adequate time for the dough to rise; this step is crucial for fluffy bread.

Filling Variations:

• Add sun-dried tomatoes or cooked bacon for extra flavor.
• Use cream cheese instead of ricotta for a richer filling.

Shaping the Tree:

• Use a ruler or template to ensure the tree shape is symmetrical.
• Don’t overcrowd the dough balls to allow for proper expansion during baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Side Dish: Pair with a hearty soup or salad for a complete meal.
• Holiday Appetizer: Serve as a festive appetizer for Christmas parties.

Variations

1. Sweet Version:
   Replace the savory filling with Nutella or cream cheese and jam for a dessert option.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
   Use gluten-free flour to cater to dietary needs.
3. Cheese-Lover’s Delight:
   Add extra cheese to the filling for a gooey, indulgent center.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive Appearance: The Christmas tree shape adds holiday cheer.
2. Irresistible Flavor: The savory spinach and cheese filling is a crowd-pleaser.
3. Fun to Make: A great recipe to involve kids or make with family.
4. Versatile: Works as an appetizer, side dish, or snack.

Conclusion

Spinach and Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a show-stopping recipe that brings together the warmth of homemade bread and the festive spirit of the season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply want to surprise your family with a creative treat, this dish is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making this delightful holiday creation!

Yield: 6

Spinach and Cheese Pull Apart Christmas Tree Bread Recipe

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Christmas celebrations call for festive and delicious dishes, and a Spinach and Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. This delightful recipe combines the soft, pillowy texture of homemade bread with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, shaped into a stunning Christmas tree. It’s not only visually impressive but also irresistibly tasty, making it a favorite for kids and adults alike.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Bread Dough:
• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• For the Filling:
• 1 cup cooked spinach, chopped and squeezed dry
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For Brushing:
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
• For Garnish:
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
2. Prepare the Filling:
   In a bowl, mix the spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until combined.
   
3. Roll Out the Dough:
   Roll the pizza dough into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon each. You’ll need approximately 25-30 dough balls.
   
4. Assemble the Tree:
   Flatten each dough ball slightly and place a small spoonful of the spinach and cheese filling in the center. Seal the edges tightly and roll back into a ball.
   Arrange the filled dough balls on the prepared baking sheet in the shape of a Christmas tree, starting with a single ball at the top and working your way down to form rows. Leave a small gap between each ball for expansion.
   
5. Bake:
   Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
   
6. Brush with Garlic Butter:
   While the bread bakes, mix the melted butter with minced garlic and parsley.
   Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush it generously with the garlic butter mixture.
   
7. Serve:
   Transfer the pull-apart bread to a serving platter. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
   Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes

• Make Ahead: Assemble the tree and refrigerate up to 6 hours before baking. Brush with garlic butter after baking.
• Customizable Filling: Add cream cheese, feta, or even crumbled cooked bacon for a richer filling.
• Holiday Presentation: Add a small star-shaped piece of dough or cheese at the top for a festive touch!