Pull Apart Christmas Tree Bread

Step 1

Thaw rolls on counter for 10-15 minutes just until thawed but still cool to the touch. Line a large sheet pan with parchment.

Step 2

On a non-stick surface, press each piece of dough into a 2 circle. Center one piece of mozzarella in the dough. Pull sides of dough together and pinch together to seal. Repeat process until all rolls are filled shaping into even rounds.

Step 3

Arrange rolls seam side down on pan side by side, touching. Begin with 2 rolls side by side to form the base of the tree, then a row of 7 rolls, 6 rolls, 5 rolls, 4 rolls, 3 rolls, 2 rolls and 1 roll for the top. To make the star, flatten one roll and cut into a star shape with a cookie cutter, place on top of single roll or place alongside the tree without touching, on the pan. Cover and let rise in a draft free place for 1 hour.

Step 4

To bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix together melted butter, Italian seasoning, salt, red pepper flakes and minced garlic. Brush rolls on all sides liberally using a pastry brush. Reserve half for after baking. Mix some of the chopped parsley with reserved butter. (Reheat butter for a few seconds in microwave if it solidifies and cools while the rolls bake)

Step 5

Bake Christmas tree for 20-22 minutes or just until golden brown and puffed. Remove from oven and brush with reserved butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and remaining chopped parsley.

Step 6

Decorate with sprigs of rosemary and cherry tomato halves then serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or pizza sauce for dipping.