In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. (Pro tip: Milk should be warm, not hot—around 110°F—to activate the yeast without killing it.)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

Add the melted butter, egg, and the foamy yeast mixture to the flour. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. (Pro tip: If the dough is sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time—don’t overdo it, or the bread will be dense.)

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.

In a small bowl, mix the shredded mozzarella and cheddar with the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.

Stir until all the cheese is evenly coated with butter and seasonings.

Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air.

Divide the dough into small, even pieces (about 1–2 tablespoons each) and roll them into balls. (Pro tip: Keeping them uniform ensures even baking.)

Flatten each ball slightly and place a small amount of the cheese mixture in the center. Pinch the dough around the cheese to seal it inside.

On a parchment-lined baking sheet or round pan, start forming your tree shape.

Place one dough ball at the top for the tree tip.

Arrange additional rows below, gradually increasing the number of balls per row to form a triangular tree shape.

Leave a little space between balls—they will expand and merge during baking.

Brush the tops of the dough balls with extra melted butter.

Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the tree for a melty, golden topping.

Decorate with parsley or rosemary to mimic tree branches, if desired.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake the tree for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly. (Pro tip: Keep an eye on the tops; if they brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil.)

Let the cheesy pull apart bread cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Pull off individual dough balls and dip them in marinara sauce if you like.

Watch as everyone reaches for a warm, gooey bite—they won’t be able to resist!