Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Emma
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The Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your holiday celebrations. Combining the creamy richness of spinach dip and the satisfaction of warm, baked bread, this festive recipe transforms simple pizza dough into a show-stopping centerpiece. Its golden crust, gooey spinach-cheese filling, and fun pull-apart design make it both delicious and interactive. Shaped like a Christmas tree, it’s a joyful twist on classic Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks—perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or easy Christmas party food spreads. Whether you’re hosting or gifting, this bread guarantees to spread festive cheer and comfort with every bite.

Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

A Family Tradition with a Spinach & Cheese Twist

For as long as I can remember, baking together during the holidays has been the heart of our family’s celebrations. We’d gather around the kitchen table, music playing softly, as trays of cookies and homemade bread filled the air with warmth and laughter. The first time we made Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread, it instantly became a new favorite tradition. The aroma of melted cheese and garlic butter mingled with the festive joy of shaping a soft, golden tree.

Now, every December, my family can’t imagine Christmas Eve without this Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread gracing the table. It captures everything we love about the holidays: cozy flavors, shared moments, and irresistible comfort. Watching each person pull off a fluffy branch, revealing the creamy spinach filling, reminds us that the best memories are made from simple pleasures. The Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread not only satisfies our taste buds but also celebrates togetherness, making it a seasonal must-have. It’s no wonder our guests ask for this festive bread every single year—it truly transforms a regular appetizer into holiday magic.

There’s something undeniably special about setting down a Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks creation in the middle of your party spread. The cheerful tree shape instantly draws attention—sparkling lights on the table seem to reflect off the glossy, golden crust, and guests can’t resist reaching in to grab a warm, cheesy twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in how effortlessly it brings people together.

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Golden pull-apart Xmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks arranged in a festive Christmas tree shape.

Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread – A Festive Showstopper for the Holidays


  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is a fun and festive appetizer that transforms simple pizza dough into a visually stunning holiday centerpiece. Layers of creamy spinach and three cheeses are rolled, twisted, and baked into a golden, pull-apart tree that encourages sharing and laughter. Minimal prep and bake times make it perfect for busy hosts, while optional variations like bacon bits or sun-dried tomatoes allow creative twists. Serve warm with marinara or garlic butter glaze for a crowd-pleasing addition to any Christmas party or holiday spread.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 sheets refrigerated pizza dough (14 oz each)
  • 3 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 egg (optional for egg wash)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Instructions

    1. Combine cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes in a bowl until smooth

    2. Add fully drained spinach and stir until evenly blended

    3. Roll out one dough sheet on a floured surface to a 1/4-inch-thick rectangle

    4. Spread spinach-cheese mixture over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border

    5. Top with second dough sheet and press edges to seal

    6. Cut dough into a large triangle and transfer to parchment-lined baking sheet

    7. Make horizontal cuts on both sides of the triangle, leaving the center intact

    8. Twist each branch 2-3 times to reveal filling

    9. Form a small star or ball from scraps and place atop as a tree topper

    10. Brush entire tree with melted butter or egg wash and sprinkle Italian herbs

    11. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden

    12. Brush warm tree with garlic butter glaze before serving

    • Prep Time: 20 minutes
    • Cook Time: 25 minutes
    • Category: appetizer
    • Method: baking
    • Cuisine: american

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 pull-apart slice
    • Calories: 250
    • Sugar: 2
    • Sodium: 350
    • Fat: 15
    • Saturated Fat: 8
    • Unsaturated Fat: 6
    • Trans Fat: 0.5
    • Carbohydrates: 22
    • Fiber: 2
    • Protein: 9
    • Cholesterol: 30

    Keywords: spinach bread, pull-apart bread, christmas appetizer, holiday bread, spinach cheese bread, festive appetizer, tree bread, christmas party food

    The Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Spinach Dip Breadsticks

    Creating the perfect Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread starts with gathering fresh, flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a role in producing that gooey, golden perfection—crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside. Below is a simple breakdown of everything you’ll need to make your Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks a standout hit on your holiday table.

    IngredientQuantityNotes / Substitutions
    Refrigerated pizza dough2 sheets (about 14 oz each)Substitute with homemade or whole-wheat dough for added texture.
    Fresh spinach3 cups (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and drained)Kale or chard can be used for variation.
    Cream cheese8 oz (softened)Use vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
    Shredded mozzarella cheese1 ½ cupsDairy-free mozzarella melts well for vegan option.
    Grated parmesan cheese½ cupNutritional yeast can replace for a vegan alternative.
    Garlic2 cloves (minced)Adjust to taste or use garlic powder.
    Unsalted butter3 tablespoons (melted)Substitute with olive oil or vegan butter.
    Salt½ teaspoonOptional – enhances flavor.
    Black pepper¼ teaspoonAdds subtle heat and depth.
    Egg1 (for egg wash)Optional; gives a shiny crust (skip for egg-free bake).
    Red pepper flakes½ teaspoon (optional)Adds mild spice and color contrast.
    Dried Italian herbs1 teaspoonOptional; brings Mediterranean aroma.

    Pro Tip: Use room-temperature ingredients for a perfectly spreadable filling. The smoother your spinach-cheese mixture, the easier it will be to shape and twist the bread later.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Shaping and Baking the Xmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks

    The magic of Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks lies in its presentation—a visually stunning yet surprisingly simple process. Follow these clear steps for a festive bread centerpiece that looks beautiful and tastes divine.

    1. Prepare the Spinach-Cheese Filling

    1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
    2. Add thawed and fully drained spinach. (If using fresh spinach, sauté briefly to remove excess moisture before adding.)
    3. Stir until smooth and evenly blended. The consistency should be thick and creamy.

    2. Roll Out the Dough

    1. On a floured surface, unroll one sheet of pizza dough into a large rectangle (about ¼-inch thick).
    2. Spread the spinach-cheese mixture evenly over the entire surface, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
    3. Lay the second sheet of pizza dough on top, pressing down gently to seal.

    3. Shape the Christmas Tree

    1. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough layers into a large triangle shape (this forms the tree). Keep the scraps—they can become mini breadstick ornaments!
    2. Transfer the triangle to a parchment-lined baking sheet for easier shaping.
    3. Using a knife, create horizontal cuts about 1 inch apart on both sides of the tree, leaving the center “trunk” intact.

    4. Twist and Design

    1. Gently twist each “branch” about two to three times to reveal the beautiful green filling.
    2. Roll leftover dough into a small star or ball to place on top as the tree topper.
    3. Brush the entire surface with the melted butter (or egg wash for shine). Sprinkle with Italian herbs for added fragrance.

    5. Bake to Golden Perfection

    1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until puffed, golden, and fragrant.
    3. If using an oven thermometer, ensure even heat to prevent overbaking.

    6. Finish with a Garlic Butter Glaze

    1. While still warm, brush the baked Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread with garlic-infused butter for extra shine and aroma.
    2. Allow it to cool slightly before serving—this helps the cheese firm up just enough for neat pull-aparts.

    Recommended Tools: Rolling pin, sharp knife or pizza cutter, parchment paper, baking tray, pastry brush.

    Expert Tip: If you’re hosting a large gathering, double the recipe and bake two trees side by side. It’s a surefire way to wow guests with both taste and presentation.

    The result? A soft, golden Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread with gooey, garlicky goodness tucked into every branch—a show-stopping centerpiece that’s as joyful to make as it is to share.

    Presenting the Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread at Your Party

    When it comes to serving your Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread, presentation is everything. After all, this recipe is just as much a visual masterpiece as it is a flavorful indulgence. Once your golden, cheesy bread emerges from the oven, let it rest for 5–10 minutes before moving it to a serving board or platter. Arrange it in the center of your table to serve as both décor and appetizer—it instantly becomes the conversation piece everyone flocks to.

    For a touch of holiday charm, decorate your Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread with small cherry tomatoes or red bell pepper pieces to mimic ornaments. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of green, and a dusting of grated parmesan can resemble “snow.” If you want even more sparkle, drizzle lightly with extra melted butter before serving to make it glisten under your holiday lights.

    This Christmas Tree Spinach Dip Breadsticks display pairs beautifully with a variety of dips—think marinara, ranch, or a tangy cranberry cream cheese sauce for a seasonal twist. Serve it warm for the ultimate pull-apart experience, ensuring every piece reveals that perfect stretchy melt of cheese. Whether served as a starter, side, or décor, your Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread radiates festive comfort with every bite.

    Make-Ahead Tips and Flavor Variations for Every Holiday Gathering

    The Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread can easily be made ahead to cut down last-minute stress during holiday prep. If you’re serving later in the day, assemble it—right up to baking—and refrigerate covered with plastic wrap for up to 8 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled dough.

    For leftovers, wrap the cooled bread tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes to restore its crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust rubbery. To freeze, assemble and freeze before baking—thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking fresh.

    For flavor twists, try adding bacon bits, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean touch. You can swap in caramelized onions or feta cheese for richer layers. Hosting a cocktail or kids’ party? Make mini versions of your Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread for easy grab-and-go portions. Every variation keeps its gooey, garlicky heart and festive shape while matching your crowd’s tastes.

    Frequently Asked Questions about Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

    1. Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?
    Absolutely! While refrigerated pizza dough saves time, homemade dough offers a fresher flavor and fluffier texture. Just make sure it’s evenly rolled and not too sticky before adding the filling.

    2. How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
    Thoroughly drain any moisture from spinach before mixing it with cheese, and bake on parchment-lined trays for even airflow. Avoid excessive filling to maintain perfect texture.

    3. What cheeses work best for this recipe?
    A trio of cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan provides the creamy, stretchy, savory balance. For dairy-free versions, use vegan cheese blends that melt smoothly.

    4. Can it be made vegan or gluten-free?
    Yes! Opt for dairy-free cheeses, butter, and gluten-free pizza dough. You’ll still enjoy the same festive look and delicious flavor.

    5. How far in advance can I prepare it?
    Assemble several hours ahead (up to 8 hours refrigerated) and bake just before serving. You can also freeze the unbaked bread and thaw overnight before baking fresh.

    Wrapping Up – Making Every Holiday Moment Delicious with Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread

    The Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of warmth, creativity, and togetherness. Its melt-in-your-mouth filling, charming tree shape, and pull-apart appeal make it a centerpiece that captures the holiday spirit. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a lively party, this bread transforms any table into a festive feast.

    Simple to make yet stunning to serve, the Spinach & Cheese Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread unites everyone through the joy of food and festivity. From its golden crust to gooey spinach layers, each bite embodies Christmas cheer. Roll out your dough, shape your tree, and let this indulgent appetizer fill your gatherings with laughter, love, and delectable memories.

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