Breadstick Snakes

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to celebrate Halloween, then these Breadstick Snakes are just what you need! Not only are they super easy to make, but they also bring a playful twist to any gathering. I remember the first time I made them for my kids; their eyes lit up with excitement when they saw these creepy-crawly treats. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these snake-shaped breadsticks are bound to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!

What makes this recipe extra special is that it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. They’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun snack during movie night. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and have some fun in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-Friendly Fun: The kids will love helping shape the snakes and decorating them.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for Halloween parties, but also great for everyday snacks or gatherings.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Deliciously Savory: These breadsticks are not just cute; they’re packed with flavor!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these delightful Breadstick Snakes, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything on hand—you can easily customize this recipe with what you have.

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to get creative based on what you like or have available. Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Add More Colors: Use different types of bell peppers for tongues—like green or yellow—for a colorful twist.
• Make Them Spicy: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the dough before baking for a little kick!
• Try Different Toppings: Experiment with toppings like grated vegan cheese or Italian herbs to change up the flavor profile.
• Switch Up the Shapes: Instead of snakes, shape the dough into other spooky critters like spiders or worms!

How to Make Breadstick Snakes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350° F. This step is essential as it ensures that your breadsticks will bake evenly and come out golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Snake Features

Take your black olives and chop them into small pieces for the eyes of your snakes. Next, slice your red bell pepper into forked tongues. Set both aside—these little details really bring your breadstick snakes to life!

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean surface. Cut the dough into 12 strips along its long side. Then, roll each strip into a 12-inch rope, tapering one end to create the tail and flattening the other end for the head. This gives each snake its unique shape!

Step 4: Wrap Your Snakes

Take each rope and wrap it around a greased chopstick or metal straw in a spiral fashion. This not only adds charm but also helps achieve that perfect snake look! Once wrapped, brush each breadstick with olive oil and sprinkle poppy seeds or sesame seeds on top.

Step 5: Add Eyes

Place the black olive pieces on the head of each snake for those adorable eyes. These little touches make all the difference in presentation!

Step 6: Bake

Carefully place your breadsticks on two parchment-lined baking sheets and bake in your preheated oven until they turn golden brown—about 11 to 15 minutes. Let them cool for about three minutes before gently removing them from their sticks.

Step 7: Finish with Tongues

While still warm, use a toothpick or skewer to poke forked red pepper tongues into each snake’s head. This final touch is what truly brings your Breadstick Snakes to life!

Now you’re all set! Enjoy these deliciously spooky treats at your next gathering!

Pro Tips for Making Breadstick Snakes

Making these Breadstick Snakes is not only fun but also a chance to get creative in the kitchen! Here are some tips to ensure your snakes turn out perfectly.

• Use fresh pizza dough: Fresh dough gives your breadsticks a better texture and flavor. If you can, opt for store-bought dough from the bakery section for an even tastier result.
• Adjust the thickness: For a chewier snake, roll your dough strips thicker. If you prefer a crispier texture, roll them thinner. Finding the right balance will enhance your overall experience.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different seeds or spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs to the dough before baking. This adds an exciting twist and makes each batch unique!
• Let them cool slightly: After baking, allow the breadsticks to cool just enough before removing them from sticks. This helps maintain their shape and prevents them from breaking apart.
• Get creative with shapes: While making snakes is fun, don’t hesitate to create other shapes, like worms or even fun letters! Let your imagination run wild for added enjoyment.

How to Serve Breadstick Snakes

Presentation can elevate any dish, and these playful Breadstick Snakes are no exception! Here are some ideas for serving them at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or chives: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the savory flavors of the breadsticks.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their experience.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable platter: Pair these breadsticks with an assortment of colorful veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Add a dip such as hummus or ranch dressing for an extra touch.
• Cheesy dip: A warm cheese dip pairs wonderfully with the breadsticks. The gooeyness of melted cheese creates a delightful combination that’s hard to resist!
• Soup: Serve alongside a hearty tomato soup or creamy pumpkin soup. The warmth and flavors of soup will complement the savory breadsticks beautifully.
• Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette provides freshness that balances out the richness of the breadsticks.

These suggestions will not only make your Breadstick Snakes more appealing but also create an inviting atmosphere for your guests. Enjoy serving up this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Breadstick Snakes are fantastic for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and store them for later, making them a great snack or side dish option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the breadsticks to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freeze the breadsticks after they have cooled down.
• Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350° F.
• Remove the desired number of breadsticks from the refrigerator or freezer.
• If frozen, let them thaw slightly before reheating.
• Place on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have some questions? Here are answers to common inquiries about our delicious Breadstick Snakes!

Can I make Breadstick Snakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these snakes a few hours in advance and store them until you’re ready to bake. Just follow the storage instructions above!

What can I serve with Breadstick Snakes?

These delightful breadsticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, hummus, or even a creamy dip. They’re great as a snack on their own, too!

Are there any variations I can try with Breadstick Snakes?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different toppings like grated cheese or herbs. You can also use whole wheat dough for a healthier twist.

How do I ensure my Breadstick Snakes come out perfectly?

Make sure not to over-bake them; keep an eye on your snakes until they reach a golden brown color. Properly rolling and shaping will also help achieve that perfect snake look!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these playful Breadstick Snakes as much as I do! They bring joy and creativity to any gathering, especially during Halloween. Don’t hesitate to get your kids involved—they’ll love shaping their own snakes! Happy baking, and may your table be filled with laughter and deliciousness!