200gMozzarellacubed (use any good melting cheese you like)
For the topping
1eggbeaten
1tbspdried herbs (I used standard mixed herbs but you can use any dried herb seasoning of your choice)
flaky sea salt
For serving (optional)
Pomegranate rubies
Rosemary
Instructions
To make the dough, whisk together the water, yeast and sugar. Allow to stand for 5 minutes until frothy.
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt and mix.
Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and mix until the dough starts to come together. Add the egg and butter then knead for 5 minutes until the dough is soft and smooth. The dough should come away from the sides of the bowl while kneading.
If the dough is too sticky, add 2-3 tablespoons flour, one tbsp at a time and allow to knead until the dough is smooth.
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Place in a warm spot and allow to rise for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
Once the dough has risen, break golf-ball sized pieces off and flatten in the palm of your hand. Add a cube of cheese then bring all the edges up, pinching them together then roll into balls.
Place the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or large sheet pan in the shape of a Christmas tree. Allow a little space in between the dough balls.
Cover the Christmas tree bread loosely with plastic wrap and allow to rise while the oven heats up.
Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.
Brush the risen bread with beaten egg and sprinkle with dried herbs and salt.
Place in the oven and allow to bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven, allow to cool for 10 minutes then decorate with pomegranate rubies and rosemary (optional) before serving.