Make the Dough

• Combine 1/4 cup warmed milk with yeast and sugar. Set aside until foamy.
• In a large bowl (I use my stand mixer) combine remaining ingredients, except milk.
• Add in milk and yeast mixture and 3/4 cups milk. Mix together, adding in remaining milk if needed.
• Knead mixture for 7-10 minutes. Shape into a ball, place back into bowl, and let rise for an hour, until doubled.
• Make the Cheesy Tree
• Place dough onto counter and divide into 30 sections (roughly 1 oz each).
• Flatten each dough piece out and place one quarter piece of a mozzarella stick in the middle. Gently shape into a round ball.
• Take each ball and arrange into a tree shape. I did 5 layers in a triangle shape. Placed one ball on the very top for the star (you can also use a cookie cutter to make a star shape) and one ball at the bottom for the trunk. Cover and let rise for about another hour.
• Combine butter and garlic and brush onto tree. Top with shredded mozzarella and dried parsley.
• Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes.
• Serve with marinara sauce and enjoy!