This easy Christmas tree garlic bread is the ultimate holiday appetizer! Made with pizza dough, garlic butter, and cheese, it’s a festive pull-apart bread that everyone will enjoy.
There’s something about baking bread in the shape of a Christmas tree that just makes the season feel extra festive. This pull-apart garlic bread has become one of my favorite holiday appetizers – warm, buttery, and golden, wit soft cheesy layers that twist apart beautifully.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels impressive but couldn’t be easier, especially since it starts with store-bought pizza dough. I love making it when family or friends stop by, or as a fun centerpiece for Christmas Eve dinner. And if you’ve got little helpers in the kitchen, twisting the “branches” is the best part!
Watch how I shape and twist the tree in my REEL below!
Tips and Variations:
- Make it ahead: You can shape and twist the tree a few hours before baking and then refrigerate until ready to bake fresh.
- Add a little heat: Sprinkle crushed red pepper or use a spicy marinara dip.
- For cheese lovers: Add a few tablespoons of shredded provolone or fontina for a richer melt.
- Festive twist: Dot with small cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers as “ornaments” before serving.
Why I love this recipe:
I brings people together – everyone gathers around, pulling off a warm, buttery twist while chatting and laughing. It’s simple enough for a weekend, prey enough for a party, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Whether you serve it as an appetizer, alongside soup, or as part of your Christmas spread, tis twisted Christmas tree garlic bread is sure to make your holiday able sparkle with warmth and joy.
My gingham oven mitts can be found here!
Looking for a more holiday appetizers? Try these!
Looking for a unique, festive appetizer idea? Create a festive Antipasto Wreath! This is easy to make and so delicious. An Antipasto Wreath is an easy to-go appetizer so you can take it to your next holiday party. It is served cold so no reheating needed.
My cousin Patti gave me her Cheese Ball recipe and I couldn’t wait to share it with you. It has creole seasoning and packed with chopped ham and then rolled in a generous amount of chopped pecans. It’s definitely party size! Make sure you add this to your holiday appetizer list or take it to your next party. Guests will love it! Serve with your favorite cracker and sliced apple if you’d like.
Twisted Christmas Tree Pizza Bread Recipe
This easy Christmas tree garlic bread is the ultimate holiday appetizer! Made with pizza dough, garlic butter, and cheese, it's a festive pull-apart bread everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 balls of pizza dough (store-bought or homeade)
- 8 tablespoons softened butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (mixture of basil, parsley, oregano)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan + extra for garnish
- 2/3 cup marinara sauce (more or less as needed for dipping)
- Finish with: olive oil, grated Parmesan, flaky salt, marinara sauce, or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Roll out one ball of dough forming an even rectangle. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over it and then sprinkle with cheese.
- Roll out the second dough ball forming an even rectangle. Lay the second piece of dough on top, matching the shape. Trim the edges if you need to.
- Starting at the sides, cut 1-inch horizontal slits toward the center (leaving a strip in the middle intact for the "trunk"). Gently twist each strip a few times to show the buttery layers.
- Brush the tree with olive oil, sprinkle with additional Parmesan if you'd like and flaky salt. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with extra cheese, butter, or marinara if you'd like.
