Festive Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks for Holidays are a fun, cheerful appetizer that instantly brings seasonal joy to the table, combining soft pizza dough, buttery flavor, and a playful candy cane shape that both kids and adults love. These breadsticks are simple to make, visually impressive, and perfect for holiday parties, school events, or cozy family gatherings.
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Why You’ll Love These Festive Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks for Holidays
These holiday breadsticks check all the right boxes. They are easy enough for beginner cooks, quick to prepare during a busy season, and festive without requiring special equipment or advanced skills. The red and white candy cane twist adds a holiday wow factor, while the savory pizza dough and garlic butter flavor keep them comforting and familiar.
They are also very flexible. You can keep them plain for picky eaters, add seasonings for extra flavor, or serve them with a variety of dipping sauces. Because they use basic pizza dough, they are affordable and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for Festive Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks for Holidays
Breadstick Dough
- 1 pound pizza dough, store bought or homemade
- Red food coloring, about 8 to 10 drops
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving
- Warm marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing or garlic dip
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer to avoid artificial food coloring, you can leave the dough uncolored and still shape it into candy canes. Another option is using natural coloring like beet powder, though the color will be more muted.
For a dairy free version, use plant based butter and skip the cheese. For added nutrition, whole wheat pizza dough works well and adds a slightly nutty flavor.
If you want extra aroma without garlic powder, brush the breadsticks with olive oil and sprinkle with dried oregano or basil.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This high temperature helps the breadsticks puff and brown nicely while staying soft inside.
Step 2: Divide and Color the Dough
Divide the pizza dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain. Place the second portion in a bowl and add red food coloring a few drops at a time. Knead gently until the color is evenly distributed. Add more coloring if needed to achieve a festive red shade.
Step 3: Roll the Dough into Strips
Cut both dough portions into equal sized pieces, about 12 to 16 pieces per color depending on how large you want the breadsticks. Roll each piece into a rope about 8 to 10 inches long. Try to keep the thickness consistent so they bake evenly.
Step 4: Twist and Shape into Candy Canes
Take one red rope and one plain rope and gently twist them together. Curve the top into a candy cane shape. Place each twisted breadstick onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them for rising.
Step 5: Add the Butter Topping
Brush each breadstick generously with melted butter. Sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning if using. For extra flavor, add a light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are puffed and lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as thinner breadsticks may bake faster.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Pro Tips for Success
- Do not over knead the dough after adding food coloring, as it can become tough
- Roll the dough ropes evenly so the breadsticks bake at the same rate
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even browning
- Brush with butter both before and after baking for extra softness
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor
Flavor Variations
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Add shredded mozzarella inside the twist before shaping
- Herb Lovers: Sprinkle rosemary, thyme, or basil on top before baking
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter topping
- Everything Style: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning over the butter
- Pesto Twist: Brush lightly with pesto after baking instead of butter
Serving Suggestions
These festive candy cane pizza breadsticks are perfect as a holiday appetizer, but they also pair well with soups and salads. Serve them alongside tomato soup, minestrone, or a simple Caesar salad for a complete meal. They also make a great addition to a holiday snack board with cheese, olives, and dips.
For kids’ parties, serve them with small cups of marinara or cheese sauce for dipping. Their playful shape makes them an instant hit.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day or in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to restore softness.
To freeze, bake and cool completely. Place in a freezer safe bag for up to two months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven until warmed through.
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Festive Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks for Holidays
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Festive candy cane pizza breadsticks for holidays are a fun and cheerful appetizer made with soft pizza dough, buttery garlic flavor, and a playful candy cane shape that is perfect for parties, family gatherings, and seasonal celebrations.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough, store bought or homemade
- Red food coloring (8 to 10 drops)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Warm marinara sauce, for serving
- Ranch dressing or garlic dip, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide pizza dough into two equal portions.
- Knead red food coloring into one portion until evenly colored.
- Cut both dough portions into equal pieces and roll each into 8 to 10 inch ropes.
- Twist one red rope with one plain rope and curve into a candy cane shape.
- Place breadsticks on prepared baking sheet with space between them.
- Brush generously with melted butter.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan if using.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until puffed and lightly golden.
- Cool slightly and serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
Avoid over kneading colored dough and serve breadsticks warm for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Values are approximate and depend on dough and toppings used.
FAQ About Festive Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks for Holidays
Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the breadsticks a few hours ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
What kind of pizza dough works best?
Both homemade and store-bought pizza dough work well. Fresh dough that is soft and elastic is easiest to shape and twist.
Are these breadsticks kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Kids love the candy cane shape and mild flavor. You can skip garlic seasoning for very young children if needed.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten free pizza dough that is suitable for rolling and shaping. Baking times may vary slightly.
What dipping sauces go best with them?
Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but ranch, garlic butter, or even cheese sauce work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Festive Candy Cane Pizza Breadsticks for Holidays are the perfect blend of creativity and comfort food. They bring a playful holiday touch to any table while staying easy, affordable, and delicious. Whether you are hosting a party or looking for a fun recipe to make with family, these breadsticks are sure to become a holiday favorite.