Watch these simple steps to make pull-apart string cheese Christmas tree bread l GMA

Ingredients

• 12 sticks Mozzarella Sticks (cut into 1‑inch cubes)
• 1 pound Pizza Dough (store‑bought or homemade, rolled thin)
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning (optional, adds flavor to each bite)
• 1 large Egg (beaten with 1 tbsp water for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp Water (mixed with egg for wash)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• 2 tbsp Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated, for garnish)
• 1 cup Marinara Sauce (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

   Preheat the oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle of the oven.

   Time: PT10M

   Temperature: 400°F

2. Cube Mozzarella

   Trim the ends off the mozzarella sticks and cut each stick into roughly 1‑inch cubes.

   Time: PT5M

3. Roll Dough

   On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a 12‑inch circle and cut it into 32 equal pieces using a knife or pizza cutter.

   Time: PT10M

4. Assemble Balls

   Place one mozzarella cube on each dough piece, sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning, fold the edges over the cheese and roll into a smooth ball, sealing the seam tightly. Position each ball seam‑side down.

   Time: PT10M

5. Arrange on Pan

   Line the baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the dough balls in a triangular pattern resembling a Christmas tree, leaving a small gap between each ball.

   Time: PT5M

6. Apply Egg Wash

   In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tbsp water. Brush each ball lightly with the egg wash.

   Time: PT2M

7. Bake

   Bake the arranged balls at 400°F for about 16 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the mozzarella begins to ooze.

   Time: PT16M

   Temperature: 400°F

8. Garnish & Serve

   Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan, and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce or your favorite dip.

   Time: PT3M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

150

Protein

8g

Carbohydrates

15g

Fat

8g

Fiber

1g