This fun Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread is perfect for the holidays! Flaky bread stuffed with tasty pesto and cheese makes every pull a delicious treat.
It’s like tearing into a Christmas gift, but way more delicious! 😂 I love serving it warm so everyone can pull off their favorite piece right from the tree. Enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: Using store-bought puff pastry is super convenient! If you prefer homemade, any bread dough will work. You could even try crescent roll dough for a softer texture.
Basil Pesto: Fresh basil pesto adds amazing flavor! If you’re short on basil, use store-bought pesto or try spinach or sun-dried tomato paste as alternatives. Just adjust to taste.
Shredded Mozzarella: Mozzarella gives a wonderful meltiness. You can substitute it with provolone, cheddar, or a blend of your favorites. Just keep the texture in mind!
Egg (for egg wash): This adds a beautiful shine! If you want to skip the egg, brush the top with milk or dairy-free milk for a nice finish.
Seasonings: I love adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Don’t hesitate to customize based on what you have on hand!
How Do You Get the Perfect Twist on Your Bread?
Twisting your bread just right gives it that beautiful tree shape and helps it cook evenly. Here are some tips for success:
- Make sure to cut clean lines for your strips. A sharp knife helps maintain the shape.
- When twisting, gently hold the base of each strip to keep it sturdy, then give it a good turn.
- Don’t rush the twisting! Take your time to expose the tasty filling more beautifully.
- Arrange the twisted sections snugly but not too tight, so they bake evenly.
With these techniques, your Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread will look stunning and taste delicious!
Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 2 sheets of puff pastry (or homemade bread dough)
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: garlic powder, dried oregano, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor
- Flour for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pesto Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Bread will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you should allow about 40-50 minutes to enjoy this festive treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your bread from sticking!
2. Prepare Pastry:
Next, lightly flour your work surface. Roll out your puff pastry sheets into equal-sized rectangles, aiming for about 10 inches by 12 inches each. This size helps in shaping your tree nicely!
3. Layer Pastry:
Now, place one puff pastry sheet on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread an even layer of basil pesto over the entire sheet. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top for cheesy goodness!
4. Add Second Sheet:
Take the second puff pastry sheet and place it directly on top of the first. Press down lightly, so it adheres together. It will make pulling apart later super easy!
5. Cut and Shape:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the pastry into a Christmas tree shape. Start with a triangle about 10 inches tall. Then, slice the “tree” into strips on both sides, about 1 inch thick, but keep the center intact as the trunk.
6. Twist the Strips:
This is the fun part! Carefully twist each strip away from the center trunk, two to three full turns, revealing the vibrant green pesto and melted cheese inside. Arrange the twisted strips neatly for a lovely tree shape.
7. Egg Wash:
Beat the egg in a small bowl and gently brush it over the entire tree. This wash is essential for that beautiful golden shine when baked!
8. Add Parmesan & Seasonings:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, along with any optional spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning for an extra flavor kick!
9. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Place your beautiful bread in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed to perfection.
10. Cool Slightly & Serve:
Once baked, allow the bread to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This step makes it easier to pull apart the twisted pieces and enjoy the cheesy, herby goodness. Perfect for sharing during festive gatherings!
This festive bread is sure to be a hit at any holiday party. Enjoy the pull-apart fun and delicious combination of pesto and cheese! 🎄✨
Can I Use Homemade Dough Instead of Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade bread dough, just roll it out to the same thickness as puff pastry. Keep in mind the baking time may vary slightly depending on the dough’s thickness and moisture content.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the bread a few hours in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its flaky texture!
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the pesto with sun-dried tomato paste, garlic herb spread, or even a mixture of roasted veggies and cheese for a unique flavor profile!