Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas

Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas make a festive and fun appetizer for holiday gatherings. These bite sized treats combine the classic flavors of pizza with a playful seasonal shape that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Perfect for parties or a cozy family night in, they bring a burst of holiday spirit to the table without fuss.

I first made these on a chilly December evening and now they have become a holiday tradition. My kids love helping cut the dough into trees and arranging the toppings like little ornaments which makes cooking together special.

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: From store or homemade is the base providing a soft chew and holds all toppings choose fresh dough without preservatives for best rise
• Flour: For dusting to prevent sticking when rolling the dough use all purpose flour for best texture
• Olive oil: For brushing adds a beautiful golden color and subtle richness
• Pizza sauce: Offers classic tang and herbs try a quality brand or homemade for fuller flavor
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly creating that irresistible cheesy layer fresh mozzarella shredded at home works great too
• Mini pepperoni slices: Look like festive ornaments and add a savory, slightly spicy bite choose good quality pepperoni for best taste
• Green bell pepper: Finely diced is optional for adding a splash of color and fresh crunch pick firm, bright green pieces without blemishes

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit which is 190 degrees Celsius. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the mini pizzas will not stick and it helps with even baking all around.

Roll Dough:

On a clean surface lightly dusted with flour roll out the pizza dough to about a quarter inch thickness. This thickness helps your shapes cook evenly and hold the toppings without becoming soggy or too thick.

Cut Shapes:

Grab a cookie cutter shaped like a Christmas tree and press it firmly into the dough. Carefully lift each tree shape and place it onto your prepared baking sheet. Gather the dough scraps reroll gently and cut more trees until your dough is used up.

Prepare Trees for Topping:

Place each dough tree on the baking sheet and brush the surface lightly with olive oil. This step helps the dough edges brown beautifully and adds a subtle flavor.

Add Sauce:

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce across each tree shape but leave a small border around the edges. The sauce should complement the dough without making it soggy.

Add Cheese and Toppings:

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce on each tree. Arrange the mini pepperoni slices on top to look like Christmas tree ornaments. If you like add the small diced green bell peppers as colorful decorative touches to mimic Christmas lights.

Bake:

Place the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Watch for the cheese to melt fully and bubble up while the edges of the dough turn golden brown.

Cool and Serve:

Remove the mini pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly on a rack. This resting time helps set the flavors and makes them safe and pleasant to eat without burns. Now they are ready to delight your guests or family with festive joy.

I have always loved the way the mini pepperoni resemble tiny ornaments hanging on a tree. It reminds me of holiday evenings spent baking with my family while playing carols and sipping hot cider, a memory tied closely to these little savory bites.

Storage Tips

Store leftover mini pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes to keep the crust crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use whole wheat pizza dough for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Substitute turkey pepperoni or plant based pepperoni slices to make the recipe leaner or vegan friendly. Swap out mozzarella for a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone and fontina to add complexity.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these mini pizzas alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil for balance. Pair with a warm mug of tomato soup or a cold sparkling beverage for a festive touch. They also make excellent finger foods for game nights or small holiday buffets.

These Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas are quick, festive, and perfect for sharing. They make holiday baking with kids extra fun.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What dough works best for the mini pizzas?

Use a soft pizza dough, either store-bought or homemade, rolled to about 1/4-inch thickness for easy shaping and bake to golden perfection.

→ How do I shape the dough into Christmas trees?

Roll out the dough on a floured surface and use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the shapes. Re-roll scraps to maximize the number of trees.

→ Can I add other toppings besides pepperoni and bell peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings like olives, mushrooms, or different cheeses for added flavor and texture.

→ What is the ideal baking temperature and time?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and the edges turn golden brown.

→ How should I prepare the baking sheet for best results?

Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

→ Are these mini pizzas suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by omitting the pepperoni and using only cheese and vegetables, they become a delicious vegetarian option.