These Cheesy Breadstick Bones are the perfect Halloween appetizer to add some fun and flavor to your spooky party! Soft, warm breadsticks are baked with gooey melted cheese and shaped like creepy bones, making them both tasty and festive. The little “knuckles” at the ends give them a fun twist that’s sure to catch everyone’s eye.
I love making these for Halloween because they’re simple to put together but really impress guests. It’s always a hit when I bring something that looks spooky but tastes like classic cheesy bread everyone loves. My tip? Make sure to brush them with plenty of garlic butter before baking for that extra delicious flavor that keeps people coming back for more.
Serving these breadstick bones with a side of marinara sauce makes for a great dipping combo, like a spooky twist on a classic snack. I like arranging them around a “shaky hand” bowl or a pumpkin dish to keep the Halloween spirit going. Whether you’re hosting kids or adults, these little bone-shaped bites add a playful touch that sparks lots of smiles and good conversation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breadstick Dough: Using refrigerated dough keeps things easy. If you don’t have this, pizza dough works well too. Just roll it thinner to shape your bones.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts nicely and stretches like bandages. You can try provolone or a mild cheddar if you want a little different flavor.
Butter & Garlic Powder: Butter adds richness, while garlic powder boosts flavor. If you prefer, use olive oil and fresh minced garlic for a brighter taste.
Black Peppercorns or Black Sesame Seeds: These make perfect spooky eyes and mouths. If you don’t have these, tiny pieces of black olives or raisins can work too.
How Can I Shape the Breadstick Dough to Look Like Bones?
Shaping the dough is the fun part! Here’s how I do it:
- Separate the dough into sticks. Stretch the ends slightly and pinch or roll to form rounded “knuckles” for hands and feet.
- Arrange the sticks straight for the “body.”
- For extra detail, wrap thin strips of shredded mozzarella across the figure after partial baking to mimic bandages.
- Be gentle when wrapping cheese so the shape holds well and the cheese melts evenly.
- Don’t forget: place peppercorns or seeds for eyes and mouth before the final bake!
Taking your time and being a little playful with shaping helps these breadstick bones look the spookiest and tastiest!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – holds your breadstick bones snugly for even baking.
- Pastry brush – helps you spread butter and garlic evenly for great flavor.
- Sharp knife or kitchen scissors – perfect for shaping dough and cutting cheese strips.
- Oven mitts – keep your hands safe when handling hot pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked crumbled sausage or pepperoni under the cheese for a meaty boost.
- Mix in shredded cheddar with mozzarella for a sharper cheese flavor.
- Try adding chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for a fresh twist.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a little heat, great if you like spicy snacks.
Yummy Halloween Appetizers: Cheesy Breadstick Bones Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Breadstick Bones:
- 1 can (16 oz) refrigerated breadstick dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or fresh thyme
- Whole black peppercorns or black sesame seeds (for eyes and mouth)
For Serving:
- Marinara or pizza sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and roughly 20 minutes to bake, including the time to add the cheesy “bandages” and finish baking until golden and bubbly. So, you’ll have your spooky appetizers ready in about half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Shape the Dough:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Unroll the refrigerated breadstick dough and separate it into individual sticks. To shape each breadstick bone, stretch the ends a little and round them to form hands and feet, creating small human-like figures that look like little bones or mummies.
2. Season and Partially Bake:
Place your shaped dough figures into the prepared dish. Using a pastry brush, evenly coat each one with melted butter. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning (or fresh thyme) on top for a delicious flavor boost. Bake them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they start turning golden brown.
3. Add Cheese and Festive Details:
Take the baking dish out of the oven carefully. Wrap shredded mozzarella cheese over each figure to resemble mummy bandages or cheesy wrappings. Use whole black peppercorns or black sesame seeds to create spooky eyes and a tiny mouth on each figure’s head. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese melts and bubbles beautifully.
4. Final Touch and Serve:
Remove the breadstick bones from the oven and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a little extra flavor and color. Serve these warm, perfect for dipping into your favorite marinara or pizza sauce at your spooky party!
Can I Use Pizza Dough Instead of Breadstick Dough?
Yes! Pizza dough works great as a substitute. Just roll it slightly thinner so you can shape the bone figures easily and ensure they bake through properly.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadstick Bones?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy and melty.
Can I Prepare the Breadstick Bones Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Shape the dough figures and brush with butter and seasoning, then cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. Add cheese and bake right before serving for the freshest result.
What’s the Best Sauce for Dipping?
Marinara or pizza sauce is the classic choice and pairs perfectly with these cheesy breadstick bones. You can also try ranch dressing or a spicy garlic dip for a tasty twist.