Prep Time: 15 minutes | Bake Time: 15–20 minutes | Serves: 8–10
Ingredients
- 1 lb refrigerated pizza dough (or 2 cans refrigerated crescent roll dough)
- 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (low moisture)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Garnish: Sliced cherry tomatoes or diced red pepper (for ornaments), fresh parsley or basil (for tree base).
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut Dough (Pizza Dough): If using pizza dough, roll it out into a large rectangle. Cut the dough into 24-30 small, equal-sized triangles. (If using crescent rolls, separate the triangles and cut them in half to make smaller pieces).
- Assemble Pieces: Brush the inside of each triangle lightly with pesto. Place a small amount of mozzarella cheese on the center of the dough. Fold the sides of the triangle inward, pinching the edges to seal the cheese inside.
- Shape Tree: Arrange the sealed dough pieces on the baking sheet in the shape of a large Christmas tree (a triangle shape), starting with a wide base and narrowing to the top. Use a small biscuit or extra dough piece for the trunk. Leave a little space between pieces.
- Egg Wash: Brush the entire tree with the beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Garnish: Remove from the oven. Immediately garnish with the cherry tomato “ornaments.” Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
