Pizza Cinnamon Sticks ✨🍕
These Pizza Cinnamon Sticks are a deliciously cheesy and savory twist on classic breadsticks, perfect for any pizza lover! Made with tender pizza dough, a buttery parmesan-garlic spread, and melty mozzarella, these sticks are topped with marinara and optional pepperoni for a snack that’s hard to resist. Serve them as a fun appetizer, party snack, or side dish with your favorite Italian meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 (13.8-ounce) can refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- Pepperoni slices (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough directly onto the prepared baking sheet, stretching it into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick.
- Prepare the Buttery Spread: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to create a flavorful spread.
- Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the buttery mixture over the rolled-out pizza dough, making sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.
- Add the Mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, leaving a small border around the edges for easy handling.
- Drizzle with Marinara: Drizzle the marinara sauce lightly over the cheese. Add pepperoni slices if you’re using them, spacing them evenly across the dough.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Slice & Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pizza sticks cool slightly before slicing into breadstick-style pieces. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Helpful Tips:
- Even Butter Spread: For an evenly baked crust, make sure the butter mixture is spread uniformly over the entire dough.
- Customize the Toppings: Want to switch it up? Add toppings like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives for extra flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the butter spread for a bit of heat.
- No Marinara Sauce? Swap with pizza sauce or even garlic butter for a different twist.
- Perfect for Dipping: Serve with extra marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Make It Sweet: To turn these into true cinnamon sticks, skip the marinara and pepperoni. Instead, brush with a cinnamon-sugar mixture after baking.
Storage & Reheating Tips:
- To Store: Let any leftover pizza sticks cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To Freeze: Wrap cooled sticks individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Reheat refrigerated sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warmed through, or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, you can use homemade dough if you prefer. Just make sure to roll it out to a similar thickness. - What’s the best type of cheese to use?
Use mozzarella for classic gooey texture, or try provolone, Italian cheese blend, or smoked gouda for a twist. - Can I add more toppings?
Absolutely! Try adding sliced onions, bell peppers, or black olives. - How can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pizza dough and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free. - What other seasonings can I use?
Try adding a sprinkle of oregano, basil, or crushed red pepper flakes to the butter mixture. - Can I make these sweet?
Yes, skip the garlic and Italian seasoning. Spread melted butter, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, and drizzle with cream cheese icing. - Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, but adjust the baking time to 10-12 minutes or until puffed and golden. - What’s a good dipping sauce?
Serve with marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli for dipping. - Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes, place the prepared dough in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, checking frequently. - How do I keep the sticks from getting soggy?
Bake until the cheese is fully melted and the edges are crispy. This will help prevent sogginess. - Can I add meat toppings?
Definitely! Add cooked sausage, bacon crumbles, or ham for extra savory flavor. - What kind of marinara should I use?
Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara. Make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best flavor. - Can I skip the garlic powder?
Yes, but the garlic adds a classic savory note. If you’re not a fan, try substituting with onion powder. - Can I make a larger batch?
Yes, double the recipe and bake on two sheets for a party-sized snack. - What’s the best way to slice them?
Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean, even slices. - Can I add a cheese drizzle on top?
Yes, melt extra mozzarella or drizzle with nacho cheese sauce before serving. - How do I know they’re done?
Look for bubbly cheese and a golden-brown crust around the edges. - Can I add a ranch seasoning packet?
Yes, mix in a ranch seasoning packet with the butter for a zesty kick. - Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the sticks and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before baking. - Can I use different doughs?
Yes, try crescent roll dough or even breadstick dough for variation.
Secrets for Culinary Perfection:
- Use Room Temperature Dough: Let the dough come to room temperature before rolling to prevent shrinkage.
- Melt the Butter Slowly: Melt the butter slowly over low heat to prevent separation.
- Fresh Parmesan is Key: Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Crisp the Pepperoni: Cook the pepperoni slightly before adding for a crispier texture.
- Use Low-Moisture Cheese: Use low-moisture mozzarella to avoid a soggy result.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven to prevent over-browning.
- Cool Slightly Before Cutting: Let the sticks cool for a few minutes before cutting to maintain their shape.
- Season Generously: Ensure every inch of dough is covered with the butter spread for full flavor.
- Extra Cheese for Melting: Add an extra handful of mozzarella in the last 2 minutes for a gooey topping.
- Let Kids Help: This is a kid-friendly recipe—let little hands help sprinkle cheese or spread the sauce!
