Breadstick Snakes

These easy to make Breadstick Snakes are a perfect addition to any Halloween party. Not only do they serve as a fun and spooky snack, but they are also a hit with both kids and adults alike! Their unique snake shape adds an element of creativity that makes them ideal for festive gatherings or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-Friendly Fun: The playful snake design makes these breadsticks exciting for children, encouraging them to help in the kitchen.
• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious snacks without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these breadsticks complement various meals and party themes.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to enhance the recipe by adding different toppings or spices based on your taste preferences.
• Deliciously Savory: The combination of olive oil, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds creates a flavorful snack that everyone will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Breadstick Snakes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden chopsticks or metal straws
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden chopsticks or metal straws: These are essential for shaping the breadsticks. They help create the signature snake twist while baking.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your breadsticks.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

To make these fun Breadstick Snakes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 13.8 ounce tube refrigerated pizza dough

For the Decoration

• 3 black olives
• Piece of a red bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

How to Make Breadstick Snakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F to ensure it’s hot enough for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Snake Features

Cut the black olives into small pieces for the eyes. Cut a piece of red bell pepper into forked tongues. Set these aside for later use.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Unroll the tube of refrigerated pizza dough on a clean surface. Cut the dough into 12 strips along its long side. Roll each strip into 12-inch ropes, tapering one end to form a tail and flattening the other end to create a head.

Step 4: Assemble Your Snakes

Wrap each rope in a spiral around a greased wooden chopstick or metal straw. Brush each breadstick with olive oil and sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds for added flavor.

Step 5: Add Eyes

Place pieces of black olives on top of each snake’s head to represent their eyes.

Step 6: Bake Your Snakes

Arrange your breadsticks on two parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Bake them at 350° F until golden brown, which should take about 11 to 15 minutes. Allow them to cool for about three minutes before carefully removing chopsticks.

Step 7: Finish with Tongues

While still warm, use a toothpick or skewer to thread red peppers into the tip of each snake’s flat end to create their tongues.

Enjoy serving these delightful Breadstick Snakes at your next gathering!

How to Serve Breadstick Snakes

These delightful Breadstick Snakes are not only fun to make but also versatile in how you can serve them. Whether for a Halloween party or just a playful snack, here are some great serving suggestions.

As Part of a Snack Platter

• Serve the breadsticks alongside a variety of dips like marinara, ranch, or hummus for a fun and interactive snack experience.

With a Salad

• Pair the Breadstick Snakes with a fresh garden salad. The crispness of the salad complements the warm, savory breadsticks perfectly.

At a Halloween Party

• Present these spooky treats on a decorated platter with themed decorations like plastic spiders or pumpkins to enhance the festive atmosphere.

For Kids’ Lunchboxes

• Include Breadstick Snakes as a fun addition to kids’ lunchboxes. They are easy to handle and sure to bring smiles at lunchtime!

As Game Day Snacks

• Offer these breadsticks during game day gatherings. Their fun shape will entertain guests while they enjoy their favorite sports.

How to Perfect Breadstick Snakes

Making perfect Breadstick Snakes can be easy with a few simple tips. Here’s how to ensure your breadsticks come out delicious every time.

• Use fresh dough – Ensure your refrigerated pizza dough is fresh for the best flavor and texture.
• Cut evenly – Cut the dough strips evenly to ensure uniform baking and consistent snake shapes.
• Brush generously – Don’t skimp on olive oil when brushing; it helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Experiment with toppings – Try different seeds or spices for added flavor and variety on your breadsticks.
• Serve warm – These breadsticks taste best served warm right out of the oven for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Breadstick Snakes

Pairing side dishes with your Breadstick Snakes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement these fun treats well.

1. Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in garlic butter adds flavor and nutrition.
2. Caprese Salad Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables create a hearty side that pairs well.
4. Mini Meatballs – Juicy meatballs made from beef or turkey served with marinara sauce make for an irresistible pairing.
5. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer crunch and heartiness alongside your snakes.
6. Cheesy Broccoli Bake – A creamy broccoli bake provides comfort and complements the savory flavors of the breadsticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people love making Breadstick Snakes, but there are a few common errors that can affect the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not preheating the oven – Always ensure your oven is preheated to 350° F before baking. This helps achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

• Misjudging dough thickness – Cutting the pizza dough too thick can lead to undercooked breadsticks. Aim for strips that are about 1/4 inch thick for even cooking.

• Skipping the oil brush – Forgetting to brush the dough with olive oil may result in dry breadsticks. A light oil coating adds flavor and promotes browning.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet – Placing too many breadsticks on one sheet can cause uneven cooking. Spread them out to allow proper air circulation.

• Neglecting cooling time – Removing the breadsticks from chopsticks too soon can cause them to lose shape. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Breadstick Snakes will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Breadstick Snakes

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Breadstick Snakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Breadstick Snakes that may help you enhance your experience:

What can I use instead of pizza dough for Breadstick Snakes?

You can use homemade bread dough or puff pastry as alternatives. Both provide a deliciously different texture!

How do I make gluten-free Breadstick Snakes?

To make gluten-free versions, simply substitute regular pizza dough with gluten-free dough available at most stores.

Can I customize my Breadstick Snakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices or cheeses into the dough or experiment with different toppings like herbs or seeds.

How long do Breadstick Snakes take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 26 minutes, including both prep and cook time, making it a quick snack option!

Can I serve these at parties?

Yes! They make fantastic party snacks and are especially fun for Halloween-themed gatherings!

Final Thoughts

Breadstick Snakes are not only fun but also versatile! These savory treats can easily be customized with various toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a spooky party or just looking for a tasty snack, give this recipe a try!