There’s something magical about the smell of warm pizza bread baking while twinkling lights glow around the kitchen. These Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks are everything you love about Christmas fun, cozy, and irresistibly cheesy! They’re shaped like candy canes, topped with melty mozzarella and marinara “stripes,” and baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re baking with your kids or prepping for a Christmas party, these are pure holiday joy in every bite.
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Why You’ll Love These Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks
- They’re quick ready in under 30 minutes.
- Festive and family-friendly perfect for kids’ hands to help with.
- Require just a handful of ingredients.
- Smell like a cozy pizzeria during the holidays!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough: The quick base that keeps things easy and fluffy.
- ½ cup marinara sauce: Adds the classic red “candy cane” stripe choose your favorite jarred or homemade sauce.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for the white stripes. Use shredded or fresh slices.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Brushed on for that golden, crispy finish.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings in that classic pizza parlor aroma.
- Fresh basil or thyme (optional): Adds a bright green garnish that makes them extra festive.
How to Make Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks
Step 1 Prep Your Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Unroll the pizza dough onto a clean surface and cut it into 1-inch-wide strips. Twist each strip and curve one end to form a candy cane shape.
Step 2 Add the Christmas “Stripes”
Spoon marinara sauce in a swirled pattern over each dough strip. Add mozzarella cheese between the red swirls to mimic candy cane stripes don’t worry about perfection, rustic looks great!
Step 3 Season & Bake
Brush exposed dough edges with olive oil and sprinkle on Italian seasoning. Bake for 12 15 minutes until golden brown, crispy at the edges, and the cheese is bubbling.
Step 4 Serve with Holiday Cheer
Remove from oven and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with chopped basil or thyme, then serve warm with extra marinara for dipping. The smell alone will have everyone running to the table!
Tips & Variations
- Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Want a spicy twist? Mix in red pepper flakes with your sauce.
- Make mini candy canes for a fun kids’ snack tray.
- Bake directly on a sheet pan for a crispier crust.
Storage & Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 7 minutes to bring back that crispy edge. Avoid the microwave it softens the dough.
More Christmas & Cheese Recipes to Try
FAQs About Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks
Can I make them ahead for a Christmas party?
Absolutely! Shape and assemble them, then refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when guests arrive your kitchen will smell amazing!
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella gives the best melt, but provolone or a sprinkle of Parmesan adds great depth. A mix of cheeses makes them even dreamier.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Skip the parchment paper and bake directly on the metal sheet for a browner, crispier bottom. Be sure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
Final Thoughts
These Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks aren’t just food they’re an activity, a memory, and a little bit of holiday magic rolled into one. Whip them up with your kids, share them at parties, or enjoy them with hot cocoa on Christmas Eve. However you serve them, they’ll bring warmth, smiles, and cheesy happiness to your table. Merry Christmas and happy baking!
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Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks
Equipment
- Oven Preheated to 400°F (200°C)
- baking sheet Lined with parchment or greased
- Pastry brush For olive oil and herbs
- Knife or pizza cutter For slicing dough strips
Ingredients
- 1 (13.8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or fresh mozzarella slices
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- fresh basil or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for a crispier bottom.
- Unroll the pizza dough on a floured surface. Cut into 1-inch strips, twist each gently, and curve the top to form the classic candy cane hook.
- Spoon thin lines of marinara sauce along each dough strip. Layer mozzarella between the red sauce lines for that perfect candy cane swirl.
- Brush exposed dough with olive oil, sprinkle oregano, and bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
- Let cool slightly, then add fresh basil or thyme. Serve warm with extra marinara on the side for dipping.