There’s something truly heartwarming about gathering around a table filled with warm, cheesy goodness, especially during the holidays. I first discovered this Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread on a chilly winter evening, as I was prepping for a family get-together. The comforting aroma of garlic and melted mozzarella wafting through the kitchen instantly lifted everyone’s spirits, making it impossible to resist tearing into this delightful dish.
This recipe is a game changer—perfect for impressing guests while being incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform frozen dinner rolls into a golden, bubbling centerpiece that encourages sharing and laughter. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this pull-apart bread is your ticket to flavor and fun. So roll up your sleeves, grab a bundt pan, and let’s get started on this mouthwatering journey!
Why is Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread so beloved?
Stress-free preparation: This recipe simplifies your holiday cooking, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones.
Irresistible aroma: The comforting blend of garlic and melted mozzarella fills your home with a delicious scent that draws everyone to the table.
Perfect for sharing: Each cheesy piece easily pulls apart, inviting friends and family to join in on the fun.
Versatile side dish: Pair it with soups, salads, or your favorite main courses to create a complete meal that excites every palate.
Kid-friendly fun: Kids love tearing off pieces, making it a delightful experience for little helpers in the kitchen.
Make-ahead option: Prepare the dough in advance, allowing you to bake it fresh right before serving, saving you precious time during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread Ingredients
• Perfect for a cozy gathering!
- 12 frozen dinner rolls (thawed) – Use fresh bakery rolls for a deeper flavor.
- 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese – Opt for low-moisture mozzarella for better melting.
- 1/2 cup melted butter – Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning.
- 2 tsp garlic powder – Fresh minced garlic can enhance the flavor even more.
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning – Substitute with herbs de Provence for a unique twist.
How to Make Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or a round baking dish, ensuring every nook is covered to prevent sticking—a crucial step for perfectly cooked rolls!
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Arrange the thawed dinner rolls in the prepared pan. Allow them to rise for about 2 hours until they become puffy and doubled in size. This gives them that deliciously airy texture.
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Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the rolls, letting every piece soak up that lovely garlicky goodness.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously between the rolls in the pan. As they bake, this cheese will melt and ooze, creating a gooey cheese pull that everyone will love!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and bubbly. The rolls should rise slightly more and have a delightful golden hue—the scent will be divine!
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Cool the bread slightly before serving. Tear apart and serve warm, sharing the joy and yumminess with those you love!
Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping for an added flavor twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread?
Picture a cozy gathering where every bite of warm, cheesy goodness sparks joy and conversation.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: The rich, tangy tomato soup provides a perfect, contrasting dip for the cheesy bread, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
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Garlic Butter Pasta: Silky pasta tossed in garlic butter complements the flavors of the pull apart bread, adding a savory touch that makes this pairing irresistible.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with a tangy dressing offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the cheese, making every bite feel lighter.
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Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of veggies brings earthy flavors and vibrant colors to the table, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Cheesy Spinach Dip: Serve alongside this warm, cheesy dip for a fun appetizer—perfect for scooping with pieces of pull apart bread!
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing beverage brightens up the meal, cleansing the palate between those scrumptious bites of cheesy goodness.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies. Their gooey chocolate pairs well with the cheesy bread’s savory richness!
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Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the flavors of the bread and any savory dishes alongside it—a perfect finish to the feast.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread
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Thaw Properly: Make sure to thaw the dinner rolls completely in advance; this ensures even baking and a nice texture.
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Watch the Rise: Give the rolls enough time to rise—don’t rush this step! It’s essential for achieving that fluffy, pull-apart consistency.
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Use Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh, high-quality mozzarella cheese; it melts better and enhances the overall flavor of your Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread.
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Avoid Sogginess: Brush the butter mixture gently, being careful not to soak the rolls; too much butter may lead to a soggy bottom.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. The rolls should be golden brown and feel light to the touch.
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Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve the bread warm right out of the oven; it’s the perfect time to pull apart and enjoy!
Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful recipe and make it your own!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the melted butter for an aromatic twist that elevates the flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Mix crushed red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a zesty kick that warms the heart!
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Cheese Medley: Use a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar or gouda, to create a rich tapestry of flavors that surprise the palate.
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Sweet Touch: Incorporate a hint of cinnamon and sugar into the butter mixture for a sweet and savory balance that’s simply irresistible.
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Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers between the rolls for a colorful, nutritious addition that adds flavor and texture.
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Garlic Lovers: Double the garlic powder for an extra aromatic punch that garlic lovers won’t be able to resist!
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pine nuts for a delightful crunch and an unexpected depth of flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the frozen dinner rolls with gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy this cheesy delight!
Storage Tips for Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread
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Room Temperature: Keep leftover Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread at room temperature for up to 2 days, loosely wrapped to maintain freshness—this ensures the cheese stays delightful.
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Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps keep it from drying out while still preserving that cheesy goodness.
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Freezer: Freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a warm, fresh experience.
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Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This revives the melty cheese and fluffy texture beautifully!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Breads are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy time with family and friends without the last-minute rush! You can assemble the rolls and let them rise for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator; this helps develop flavor while saving you time on busy days. Simply cover the assembled pan with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then brush with the garlic herb butter and sprinkle the mozzarella as instructed. This technique ensures your bread is just as delicious as if you had baked it fresh that day!
Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of dinner rolls should I use?
You can use any frozen dinner rolls, but I recommend opting for quality ones, like bakery rolls, as they enhance the flavor. Thaw them completely to ensure an even rise and bake!
How should I store leftover Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread?
To keep your leftovers fresh, you can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days, loosely wrapped. For longer shelf life, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread?
Absolutely! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven!
How do I reheat the bread for the best results?
Reheating in the oven brings back that fresh taste. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the bread for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method keeps the texture fluffy and the cheese melty.
What should I do if my rolls do not rise properly?
If your rolls aren’t rising, ensure they were fully thawed and given enough time to rise—usually about 2 hours in a warm place. If it’s cold in your kitchen, try placing them in an oven that’s turned off but still warm or near a sunny window for a little boost!
Is this Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread safe for those with allergies?
Check ingredient labels carefully for any allergens like dairy or gluten. For dietary adjustments, you can try using gluten-free dinner rolls or dairy-free cheese alternatives to cater to specific needs—everyone deserves a delicious pull-apart experience!
Irresistibly Cheesy Pull Apart Holiday Bread You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan or a round baking dish.
- Arrange the thawed dinner rolls in the prepared pan. Allow them to rise for about 2 hours until they become puffy.
- Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Brush this mixture over the rolls.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously between the rolls in the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the bread is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool the bread slightly before serving. Tear apart and serve warm.
