These spooky breadstick bones are fun and tasty! Made with stretchy cheese and soft dough, they’re perfect for Halloween parties or a family treat.
I love how the kids giggle while shaping them into bone shapes. Plus, they’re great dipped in marinara sauce. Who knew bone-shaped snacks could be this delicious? 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: You can use any refrigerated pizza or breadstick dough. If you’re in a pinch, homemade dough works too! For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadstick dough or a gluten-free pizza base.
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to mix in cheddar for a sharper taste or a blend of your favorite melting cheeses. Vegan cheese also works as a substitute for a dairy-free option.
Garlic Powder: If you don’t have garlic powder, you can use minced garlic or garlic salt instead. Just remember to adjust the quantity so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
Butter: For a dairy-free version, substitute olive oil or vegan butter. It will still give you that deliciously rich flavor and help the toppings stick.
How Do I Shape the Breadstick Bones?
Shaping these breadsticks into bones can be fun, especially with kids! Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the Strips: Focus on cutting even strips about 1 inch wide. This keeps them uniform in size, so they bake evenly.
- Pinching Technique: When pinching the ends to form the bone shape, really press those ends together to make sure the cheese doesn’t escape while baking.
- Indentations: For the knuckles, use your finger or a small utensil to create three little indents at each end. This adds to the bone aesthetic and makes them look extra spooky!
With these tips, your Halloween breadstick bones will look fantastic and taste even better! Enjoy shaping them and have a great time in the kitchen!
Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough or breadstick dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in about 30 minutes, you can have these spooky breadstick bones ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your breadsticks bake evenly. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will make for easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
2. Preparing the Dough:
Next, sprinkle a little flour on a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle that’s about 12 by 8 inches. This gives you enough surface area to cut your breadsticks.
3. Cutting the Strips:
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips that are roughly 1 inch wide and 6 inches long. Don’t worry about making them perfect; some variations in size add to the charm!
4. Shaping into Bone Shapes:
Now, take each strip and pinch the ends together to create rounded “bone ends.” You can use your fingers to make three small indentations on each end to resemble knuckles—this is what gives them that fun spooky look!
5. Adding the Cheese:
Next, place a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each strip. This will give your breadsticks a gooey, cheesy filling that everyone loves!
6. Sealing the Bones:
Fold the dough over the cheese, making sure to pinch the edges together tightly to seal in all that deliciousness. If you notice any cheese peeking out, just pinch it closed!
7. Arranging on the Baking Sheet:
Carefully place each shaped “bone” on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them so they can expand while baking.
8. Brushing and Seasoning:
Brush the tops of the breadsticks with melted butter. This adds a nice golden color and flavor. Then, sprinkle the garlic powder, parsley flakes, Italian seasoning, and a little extra shredded mozzarella cheese on top for added goodness.
9. Baking to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the breadsticks for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t get too dark!
10. Cooling and Serving:
Once they are done, remove the breadstick bones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle. Serve them warm, with marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your spooky, cheesy Halloween breadstick bones! They’re perfect for sharing or devouring all on your own. Happy Halloween!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Dough?
Yes! You can substitute the regular pizza dough with whole wheat dough for a healthier version. For a gluten-free option, just make sure to use gluten-free pizza or breadstick dough, which can be found at most grocery stores.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadstick Bones?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the breadsticks a day in advance and keep them in the refrigerator, covered. Just let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure they bake evenly.
What Other Dips Pair Well With These Breadsticks?
In addition to marinara sauce, you can try serving these breadstick bones with garlic butter, ranch dressing, or a spicy red pepper dip for a fun twist!