These fun Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones are perfect for a spooky snack! They are shaped like bones, making them playful and perfect for the holiday.
Who doesn’t love cheesy breadsticks? I can never resist tearing into these while they’re warm! Pair them with some marinara sauce for a tasty dip. Yum! 🎃
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is crucial for helping the breadsticks rise. If you’re out of yeast, you can use instant yeast instead, using the same amount. Just add it directly to the dry ingredients without needing to dissolve it in water.
All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of the breadsticks comes from this flour. If you want a healthier option, you can try whole wheat flour, but the texture will be a bit denser.
Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese: They give your breadsticks a delicious cheesy flavor! If you’re lactose intolerant, dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast can be good substitutes.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and richness. You can swap it with melted butter for a different flavor, or use any vegetable oil you have on hand.
Egg Wash: This step makes the breadsticks shiny. If you’re vegan, you can brush with a little almond milk or leave it out entirely.
How Do I Shape the Breadsticks Like Bones?
Shaping your dough into bone shapes might seem tricky, but it’s easier than it looks! Just follow these simple steps:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal parts (about 8-10 pieces).
- To shape each piece, start by rolling it into a long, thin stick for the center. Aim for about 6-8 inches long.
- Next, roll two smaller balls for each end of the stick. Press them gently onto each end to create the bone shape.
- Make sure the ends are well attached to avoid them coming off during baking.
If it helps, look at a real bone for inspiration or even draw a quick sketch to guide your shapes!
Enjoy crafting these spooky goodies for Halloween! They are sure to impress everyone at your gathering.
Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones
Ingredients:
- 1 package (0.25 oz) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: garlic powder or Italian seasoning for extra flavor
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including 1 hour for the dough to rise, and then about 15-20 minutes for mixing, shaping, and baking. In no time, you’ll have delicious cheesy breadstick bones ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast:
Start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to help your breadsticks rise!
2. Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour. Mix everything together until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. Keep kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic. This step helps develop the gluten, giving your breadsticks a nice texture.
4. Let It Rise:
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm place, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Look for a nice puff! 🎈
5. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long shape for the center shaft of the bone, then roll two small balls for the knobs at each end. Get creative with your bone shapes!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Place the shaped dough bones onto the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the egg wash lightly over each bone. This gives them a beautiful, shiny finish.
8. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously on top of each breadstick bone. Pile it on—more cheese is always better!
9. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is deliciously melted and bubbly.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip for a fun and spooky snack!
Enjoy your Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones! 🎃🦴
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist!
What If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it may be because the yeast is old or the water was too hot or too cold. Make sure the water is at 110°F (43°C) and that your yeast is fresh. If it still doesn’t rise, consider placing it in a warmer spot or trying again with new yeast!
Can I Freeze the Dough or Baked Breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze both unbaked and baked breadsticks! To freeze unbaked dough, shape the bones and place them on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. For baked breadsticks, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. Reheat before serving!
How Can I Make These Breadsticks Healthier?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or swap it for a lower-fat version. Adding herbs and spices like garlic or Italian seasoning can enhance flavor without adding calories!
