Description
A festive and delicious centerpiece for holiday gatherings, featuring gooey melted cheese and aromatic herbs in a beautiful Christmas tree shape.
Ingredients
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 packet instant dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup milk or water
- 4 tablespoons room-temperature butter
- 30-33 pieces mozzarella cheese (7g each)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Chopped herbs (for brushing)
- Grated Parmesan (for topping)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all dough ingredients, except butter, in a bowl and mix until no dry flour is visible.
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Add room-temperature butter and knead for 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Cut the mozzarella into 30-33 pieces.
- Punch down the risen dough, divide into small balls (19-20g each), and let them relax for 10 minutes.
- Stuff each dough ball with a cube of cheese and seal them.
- Shape the stuffed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet into a Christmas tree form.
- Cover and let proof for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 425ºF (218ºC) during the last 15 minutes of proofing.
- Check the dough, then brush with an egg wash before baking.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Brush with herb butter and sprinkle with parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For dipping, serve with warm marinara sauce. Use fresh ingredients for the best results.