If you want an appetizer that will both add beauty to your table and delight the taste buds of your guests, this Christmas tree bread is it. There is no better combination than Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar and bread. And when you shape it like a Christmas tree, the result is a truly amazing Christmas appetizer plate that will wow your loved ones. Don’t miss making this super simple, super yummy, show stopping recipe this season. Be sure to share this cheesy bread recipe with friends and family members on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter or Instagram – and use our handle @cabotcheese when posting on Instagram.

To make 11 servings of Christmas tree bread, begin by stirring warm milk and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer or mixing bowl. Sprinkle yeast over the milk and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. Add ¼ cup melted Cabot Unsalted Butter (or Cabot Premium Unsalted Butter) and 1 beaten egg together, whisking to combine.

Add flour, sprinkle with salt and mix with the dough hook attachment until smooth and elastic, about 6 minutes on medium speed. Alternatively, stir in about ⅔ of the flour with a wooden spoon until stiff. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gradually knead the dough by hand incorporating the remaining ⅓ flour until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

Coat a bowl with cooking spray or oil and set dough into the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit in a warm spot until the dough is doubled in size, 1 to 2 hours.

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and punch down into a flat shape. Grate 4 ounces of Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheddar and sprinkle over the dough. Fold the dough over and gradually knead cheddar into the dough until incorporated, about 45 seconds. Let rest on the surface (covered with plastic) until relaxed, 30 to 45 minutes.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 22 roughly equal balls and place on the baking sheet in a Christmas tree shape as shown in the photo, forming bottom rows with six balls and continuing with five balls on top and so on. Let dough rise 30 to 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 375°F while the dough is rising. Bake until the top is deeply golden, approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

Stir the remaining ¼ melted butter, garlic salt and chopped herbs in a small bowl to combine. Brush the melted butter mixture on the warm bread and let the tree cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.

Place the Christmas tree on a serving platter. Cut the remaining 2 ounces of cheddar into five triangles and one square and arrange into a star shape at the top of the tree (as pictured). Place the pimento stuffed olive half in the center and serve with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

For another delicious and festive holiday appetizer dish, try our Spinach Cheddar Holiday Rolls next. Cabot is a cooperative of farm families and we work hard to produce our award-winning dairy products. We’d love to hear your feedback on this cheesy bread recipe. If you have a chance, please rate and review it!