I love making these Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks when I want something festive, fun, and incredibly easy. They combine soft pizza dough, gooey mozzarella, and classic pizza flavors, all shaped into cute candy canes that feel perfect for holidays, parties, or cozy nights at home. This recipe always brings a smile to the table and disappears fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it uses simple ingredients I usually already have on hand. I enjoy how quick it is to prepare, yet it looks impressive and playful. I also appreciate how versatile it is, since I can change the fillings or dips depending on the occasion. Most of all, I love that it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheet
1 cup shredded mozzarella or thin strips of fresh mozzarella
1/2 to 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
Optional: pepperoni slices, Italian seasoning, garlic powder
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. I roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into long, even strips.
I spoon a small amount of marinara sauce down the center of each strip, then add mozzarella cheese and any optional toppings I feel like using. I carefully fold or twist each strip, then curve one end to create a candy cane shape.
I place the shaped breadsticks onto the prepared baking sheet and bake them for about 12 to 15 minutes, until they are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. I let them cool slightly before serving, usually with extra marinara on the side for dipping.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 8 to 10 candy cane breadsticks from one can of dough.
Prep time takes me around 10 minutes.
Bake time is about 12 to 15 minutes.
Total time comes out to roughly 25 minutes.
Variations
I like switching things up by using pesto instead of marinara for a green-and-red holiday look. Sometimes I add cooked sausage or finely chopped veggies for extra flavor. I also enjoy brushing the breadsticks with garlic butter and sprinkling Parmesan cheese on top after baking.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to reheat them, I put them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to keep them crispy. I avoid the microwave when possible because I prefer the texture from the oven.
FAQs
Can I Make These Ahead Of Time?
I sometimes prepare and shape the breadsticks a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator until I’m ready to bake.
Can I Use Homemade Pizza Dough?
I like using homemade dough when I have extra time, and it works just as well as refrigerated dough.
What Dipping Sauces Work Best?
I usually serve them with marinara, but I also enjoy ranch, garlic sauce, or even Alfredo.
Can I Freeze These Breadsticks?
I prefer freezing them after baking and cooling. I reheat them straight from frozen in the oven until warmed through.
How Do I Keep The Cheese From Leaking Out?
I make sure not to overfill the dough and pinch or twist it securely so the cheese stays inside while baking.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to these Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks because they’re easy, festive, and delicious every single time. I love how customizable they are and how they instantly add a fun touch to any gathering. This recipe has become one of my favorite ways to turn simple pizza dough into something special.
Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks are a festive twist on classic pizza snacks, made with pizza dough, melted cheese, and marinara sauce, shaped into fun candy canes—perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheet
1 cup shredded mozzarella or thin strips of fresh mozzarella
1/2 to 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
Optional: pepperoni slices
Optional: Italian seasoning
Optional: garlic powder
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out pizza dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into long, even strips.
Spoon a small amount of marinara sauce down the center of each strip.
Add mozzarella and optional toppings like pepperoni, seasoning, or garlic powder.
Fold or twist each strip and shape into a candy cane by curving one end.
Place shaped breadsticks on the baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cool slightly and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Use pesto instead of marinara for a festive color variation.
Add cooked sausage or finely chopped veggies for extra flavor.
Brush with garlic butter and sprinkle Parmesan cheese after baking.
Use homemade dough if preferred for a more rustic texture.
Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.
