Name: Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread – Best Holiday Pick Ups Ever
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 roll Refrigerated Pizza Dough (Homemade dough can be used for a traditional texture.); 4 tbsp Butter, melted (Olive oil can be a lighter alternative.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic offers a more robust taste.); 1 tsp Dried Oregano (Italian seasoning or fresh basil can be used instead.); 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (An Italian cheese blend works well too.); 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for added sharpness.); Marinara Sauce (Ranch or garlic aioli can be fun alternatives.)

Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread – Perfect Holiday Pick Ups Food

Christmas just wouldn't be the same without a feast that dazzles both the eyes and the taste buds! Picture this: a beautifully crafted Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread that not only captivates with its festive appearance but also tempts with the irresistible aroma of garlic and melted cheese. As I prepared for cozy holiday gatherings, this delightful pull-apart appetizer quickly became my go-to recipe-a true crowd-pleaser that also invites creative variations.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish transforms into a whimsical centerpiece, radiating warmth and inviting everyone to partake. Whether you're looking to impress guests or elevate your family's holiday spread, this easy recipe guarantees mouthfuls of joy and laughter. Trust me; the buttery, garlic-infused goodness will leave everyone reaching for one more piece! Ready to bring some festive flair to your table? Let's dive into this delicious adventure.

Why is Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread a must-try?

Delightful Presentation: A show-stopping centerpiece that brings joy to any holiday table.
Irresistible Aroma: The combination of garlic and melted cheese will have your guests lingering in the kitchen.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal effort, you can create a dish that looks gourmet!
Versatile Flavor: Customize with different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste.
Interactive Fun: Perfect for sharing and pulling apart, making it a hit at gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and bake just before serving for ease.

This Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread not only looks festive but is also a delicious way to elevate your holiday feasts. For more tasty festive ideas, check out our collection of easy holiday appetizers.

Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread Ingredients

For the Dough
• Refrigerated Pizza Dough - A quick and easy base that allows for festive shaping; homemade dough can be used for a traditional texture.
• Butter (4 tbsp, melted) - Enhances the rich, buttery flavor of the bread; olive oil can be a lighter alternative.

For the Seasoning
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp) - Provides that quintessential garlic flavor; fresh minced garlic offers a more robust taste.
• Dried Oregano (1 tsp) - Adds a lovely herbal note that complements the other flavors; Italian seasoning or fresh basil can be used instead.

For the Cheese
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) - Essential for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience; an Italian cheese blend works well too.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (0.5 cup) - Delivers a salty, nutty richness that enhances the overall flavor; Pecorino Romano is a great substitute for added sharpness.

For Dipping
• Marinara Sauce - An optional, traditional dipping sauce that pairs beautifully with the bread; ranch or garlic aioli can be fun alternatives for different taste profiles.

Gather these simple ingredients to create your stunning Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread, and watch as it becomes the star of your holiday gatherings!

How to Make Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Shape the Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough on a clean surface. Cut it into triangle shapes, which will form the branches of your tree. Arrange the triangles on the prepared baking sheet, placing the wider end at the bottom to create a tree shape with a trunk.
Prepare the Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the shaped dough to infuse it with savory goodness.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the dough, making sure to cover it well for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Bake the Tree: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the bread; it should be golden brown and the cheese will be bubbly when it's done.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, inviting everyone to pull apart their piece of festive delight!

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra festive touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread are perfect for busy holiday hosts looking to save time! You can assemble the entire bread up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare the dough and arrange it on the baking sheet, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To maintain the fresh flavor and texture, brush the garlic butter mixture just before baking and ensure it isn't left uncovered to prevent drying out. When you're ready to impress your guests, remove the bread from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, and bake according to the recipe instructions. You'll have a stunning, delicious appetizer that's just as festive and delightful as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread?

Bring the ultimate festive flair to your holiday gatherings with delightful side dishes that pair perfectly with this cheesy, garlicky treat!

Creamy Spinach Dip: This rich dip contrasts beautifully with the chewy bread, offering a burst of flavor that everyone will love.
Crunchy Veggie Platter: Fresh, crisp vegetables add healthy texture and balance to the meal, perfect for dipping into marinara or ranch.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Intensify the garlic experience with succulent shrimp, making for a truly indulgent and festive pairing.
Mild Tomato Soup: The warm and comforting essence of tomato soup complements the bread perfectly, creating a cozy holiday vibe.
Zesty Salad: A light salad with tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the cheese and butter.
Sparkling Cider: Elevate your gathering with bubbly, non-alcoholic cider, which adds a fun holiday touch and complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Fondue: End on a sweet note with a fun dessert idea. Dip pieces of the bread in warm chocolate for a surprising twist!

Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative and put your personal spin on this delightful recipe!

Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese varieties for a plant-based option loved by all.
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the butter for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor profile.
Spicy Delight: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the garlic mixture for a little kick; serve with spicy marinara for dipping!
Cheese Mix-Up: Experiment with cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different melting texture and flavor profile that'll surprise your taste buds.
Nutty Crunch: Top the bread with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch that complements the cheese.
Sweet & Savory: Incorporate some finely chopped cooked bacon or prosciutto to add a savory twist that balances the sweetness of pastry.
Veggie Boost: Include chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes between the dough layers for an added burst of flavor and nutrition.
Different Dough: Use puff pastry instead of pizza dough for an extra flaky texture that turns the dish into an elegant appetizer.

These variations ensure that each Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread brings its unique charm, allowing everyone to enjoy this festive treat in a multitude of ways!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread

Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture.

Freezer: Freeze individual pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Ensure they are separated to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To reheat, place thawed bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Brush with a bit of melted butter before reheating to revive that fresh-baked taste.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it before baking. This makes it easy to pop in the oven when ready to serve!

Tips for the Best Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread

Chill the Dough: Keep your pizza dough chilled before cutting; this prevents it from stretching and allows for cleaner, more even shapes.
Watch the Bake Time: Stay close to the oven as your bread bakes. Overbaking can lead to dry bread, so look for a golden color and bubbly cheese.
Festive Decor: Enhance the appearance with edible decorations like cherry tomatoes or bell pepper stars, adding color and fun to your Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread.
Reheat Secrets: If you have leftovers, brush them lightly with melted butter before reheating to revive the fresh, out-of-the-oven flavor.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses to customize the taste; blends like an Italian cheese mix can add depth to your holiday bread.

Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pizza dough?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using refrigerated pizza dough for its ease of use and quick preparation. You want it to be fresh, so check the expiration date. If you prefer, homemade dough can be used for a more artisan texture, just ensure it's well-kneaded and has had adequate rising time.

How should I store leftover Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread?
To store leftover Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to seal it properly to retain its delicious buttery flavor and prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread?
Yes! You can freeze individual pieces of Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread. Simply wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag to prevent them from sticking together. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When it's time to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

What's the best way to reheat the bread?
For the best taste and texture, I suggest preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed bread directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, brushing them lightly with melted butter before reheating to bring back that freshly baked flavor. Enjoy that warm, ooey-gooey center again!

Are there any dietary considerations for the Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread?
Of course! If you have dietary restrictions, be mindful of the ingredients. For a dairy-free version, substitute the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese with vegan cheese alternatives available at most stores. If you're prepping for a gathering with pets, ensure any leftovers are stored safely away, as items like garlic are not suitable for pets. Always check for allergies to specific ingredients!

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Garlic Knot Christmas Tree Bread and cover it with plastic wrap, placing it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a fantastic option to save time on busy holiday days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven for the best rise and bake.