Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones are the perfect spooky treat for your Halloween party or just a fun snack to get into the spirit. These breadsticks are soft on the inside with a cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth, and they’re shaped like little bones to add that playful, creepy touch. The golden crust with just the right amount of cheese baked on top makes them hard to resist.
I love making these breadstick bones when friends come over because they’re simple to prepare but always get oohs and aahs for their look. One little trick I use is to sprinkle a bit of garlic powder and Italian seasoning on top before baking to add extra flavor. Plus, shaping the dough into bones is a fun step that kids especially enjoy helping with—it’s a hands-on way to get everyone excited about the snack!
These cheesy breadstick bones are great on their own or paired with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping. I usually line them up on a spooky platter with some black olives and cherry tomatoes for a festive touch. They’re a hit with both kids and adults, making Halloween a little tastier and a little more fun every year.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Using refrigerated pizza dough makes this recipe super easy. If you can’t find it, store-bought breadstick dough or even homemade dough works well. Just make sure it’s not too sticky.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a gooey, melty texture, while Parmesan adds a nice sharp flavor. For a twist, try provolone or a mild cheddar instead of mozzarella if you prefer a different taste.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning add that classic flavor. You can swap Italian seasoning with dried basil and oregano if preferred. Fresh garlic can also be used but use less as it’s stronger.
Butter: Brushing melted butter on top helps the breadsticks brown nicely and adds richness. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil or garlic-infused oil.
How Can I Shape Perfect Bone-Like Breadsticks?
Shaping the dough into bone shapes is the fun part! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Cut strips evenly so the bones bake uniformly.
- Pinch or squeeze each end of the strip to form round “knobs” resembling bone ends.
- Don’t press too hard—just enough to create the shape while keeping the dough airy inside.
- Practice makes perfect! The first few might be rough, but they’ll look great once baked.
Remember, the shapes don’t need to be perfect—quirky bones add to the Halloween fun!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat surface for even cooking and browning of the breadstick bones.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Rolling pin – helps you flatten dough evenly for good cheese distribution.
- Knife or pizza cutter – to cut dough into uniform strips for shaping.
- Pastry brush – perfect for brushing melted butter on your breadsticks for a golden crust.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding cooked crumbled sausage inside for a protein-packed twist that tastes great and adds heartiness.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a little spicy kick that fits the Halloween mood.
- Sprinkle some chopped fresh rosemary or thyme before baking for an herbaceous note that pairs well with cheese.
- Add finely chopped roasted red peppers or jalapeños inside for a burst of color and mild heat.
Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 package (16.3 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to bake, making it quick enough for any last-minute Halloween party snack or fun family activity.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven and Dough:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. On a floured surface, unroll the pizza dough. If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little flour on top to make handling easier. Use a rolling pin to gently flatten the dough evenly.
2. Adding Cheese and Forming Breadsticks:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the rolled-out dough. Fold the dough over the cheese and gently roll it again to seal the cheese inside. Cut the sealed dough into strips about 1 inch wide and 5-6 inches long. To shape each strip like a bone, pinch the ends to form rounded knobs.
3. Seasoning and Baking:
Arrange the shaped breadstick bones on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Brush their tops with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for delicious flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese inside is melted. Once baked, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your spooky, cheesy treats!
Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works great. Just make sure it’s rolled out evenly and not too sticky so you can shape the breadstick bones easily.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can shape the breadsticks and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just brush and season them right before baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover breadstick bones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to keep them crispy.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you’re not a fan of marinara, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a cheesy dip make tasty alternatives for dipping these breadstick bones.
