Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones are a fun and spooky twist on your classic cheesy breadsticks, shaped like creepy bones and loaded with gooey melted cheese. They’re perfect for adding a little festive flair to your Halloween party or just making snack time a bit more exciting for kids and adults alike.
I love how easy it is to shape the dough into those bone-like shapes—it’s almost like a little Halloween craft before the baking begins. Plus, the cheesy, garlicky flavor wins everyone over, no matter their age. I usually sprinkle a little extra parmesan on top right before baking to get that perfect golden crispiness.
These breadstick bones are great served warm with marinara or a creamy dip. I find that dunking them really brings out the flavor and keeps things messy and fun, just like Halloween should be. They’re great to share around the table while telling spooky stories or watching your favorite Halloween movies.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza Dough: Using refrigerated pizza dough makes this recipe quick and foolproof. If you prefer, store-bought breadstick dough or homemade dough work well too.
Mozzarella Cheese: I love mozzarella for its melty, stretchy texture. For a stronger flavor, try mixing in some cheddar or fontina.
Butter & Garlic Powder: They bring great flavor and help the breadsticks brown. If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead.
Italian Seasoning: This is optional but adds a nice herby touch. Feel free to swap it with dried oregano, basil, or thyme.
Marinara Sauce: Perfect for dipping and adds a nice contrast. Ranch or a mild cheese sauce are fun alternatives.
How Do You Shape the Breadstick Bones to Look Just Right?
Shaping the bone ends nicely is key to spooky breadsticks! Here’s how I do it:
- Pinch the dough strip ends to create a rounded knob, making it wider than the middle.
- Add 3 small indentations on each knob to mimic knobby bone joints; you can use your finger or a small spoon handle for this.
- Press small bits of extra dough or cheese into the indentations to make them stand out.
- Keep the middle strip thinner than the ends for that classic bone shape.
Take your time shaping before baking, as well-formed bones bake evenly and look super cool!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – provides a flat surface for even baking of the breadstick bones.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the dough evenly to the right thickness.
- Basting brush – lets you brush the butter and seasoning mix evenly over the dough.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – makes clean, straight cuts for shaping the breadsticks.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked crumbled bacon or pepperoni for a smoky, meaty twist that pairs well with cheese.
- Sprinkle in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a fresher, aromatic note.
- Use a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese to boost the cheesy flavor and add a bit of color.
- Toss in some finely chopped roasted garlic or caramelized onions for extra sweetness and depth.
Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tube (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes in total—5 minutes to prep and shape the dough, then 12-15 minutes baking time. Just a little time and you’ll have spooky, cheesy breadstick bones ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Workspace and Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Roll and Cut the Dough:
Lightly flour your surface, then roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut it into strips approximately 1 inch wide and 6 inches long.
3. Shape the Bone Ends:
Pinch each end of the strip to form a wider, rounded “knob,” like the ends of bones. You can pinch the other end too so both ends have this shape. Add three little indentations on each knob using your finger or a spoon handle to resemble knobby joints. Press small pieces of extra cheese or dough into these indentations to enhance the look.
4. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each strip, pressing lightly so it sticks. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning (if using), and salt. Brush this mixture generously over each shaped breadstick.
5. Bake and Serve:
Place the breadstick bones on your baking sheet with space between each. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Let them cool a bit, then serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Perfect for your spooky Halloween party!
Can I Use Frozen Pizza Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the frozen dough completely in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. This helps the dough roll smoothly and bake evenly.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and shape the breadstick bones, then cover and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold dough.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover breadstick bones in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.
What Are Good Dipping Sauces Besides Marinara?
Try ranch dressing, garlic butter, or a creamy cheese sauce as fun alternatives. They all pair nicely with the cheesy, garlicky flavor of the breadstick bones.
