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Homemade Cheesy Pizza Sticks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 89 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 pizza sticks
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

These Homemade Cheesy Pizza Sticks feature a soft, flavorful dough filled with a melty blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Perfectly golden and brushed with a garlic-herb butter, they make an irresistible appetizer or snack, ideal for sharing at any gathering.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup semolina
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

Filling and Topping

  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup pizza sauce

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast. Combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir gently to blend, then let it sit for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes foamy, ensuring the yeast is active. Avoid water hotter than 115°F to preserve yeast viability.
  2. Make the Dough. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, semolina, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and one tablespoon of olive oil, stirring until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic; the dough should spring back when lightly pressed.
  3. Let the Dough Rise. Lightly oil a clean bowl with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Place the dough inside, cover with plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dough. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and dust lightly with semolina. Punch down the dough, turn it out onto a floured surface, and roll into a 12×8-inch rectangle. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border, then distribute mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly on top.
  5. Shape and Slice. Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices. Use a paring knife to make two small slits on top of each stick to allow steam to escape during baking.
  6. Prepare Garlic Butter and Brush. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Brush half of this mixture over the pizza sticks. Arrange the sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake the Pizza Sticks. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until golden brown and cheese begins to ooze.
  8. Finish and Serve. Remove from oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic-herb butter. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Ensure water temperature is around 110°F to properly activate yeast without killing it.
  • Making small slits on top of the dough slices is key to prevent sogginess and allow steam to escape.
  • Semolina sprinkled on the baking sheet adds texture and prevents sticking.
  • These pizza sticks are best enjoyed fresh and warm but can be reheated in the oven for best results.
  • Feel free to substitute cheeses or add additional herbs for personalized flavor.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/homemade-cheesy-pizza-sticks-recipe/