Both delicious and festive, this holiday appetizer will impress all of your guests.

INGREDIENTS

• 4 slices Baked Honey Kentucky Legend Quarter Sliced Ham
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese
• 1 1/2 lb prepared pizza dough
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh basil, divided
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh rosemary
• 4 tsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 cups marinara sauce, for serving

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Cut ham into 32 bite-size pieces. Cut mozzarella into 32 squares (1/2-inch squares). On floured surface, cut dough into 4 pieces. Cut each quarter into 8 portions. Roll out each piece into 1/4-inch thickness. Stuff with piece of ham, cheese and a little basil. Pinch edges to seal and enclose filling. Roll into balls.
2. Place each ball, seam-side down, on parchment paper–lined baking sheet, arranging balls in shape of Christmas tree. Start with 1 ball at bottom to resemble tree trunk. Then with balls touching, arrange row of 7 balls. Add rows, reducing the number of balls by 1 in each row to form triangle shape.
3. Beat egg with 1 tbsp water; brush over dough balls. Sprinkle with rosemary, sesame seeds and garlic powder. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with remaining basil.
4. Meanwhile, heat marinara sauce in saucepan set over medium heat until simmering. Serve pizza bites with marinara sauce for dipping.

Tip: Substitute 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese for sesame seeds if desired.