Breadstick Snakes

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious snack to bring some excitement to your Halloween party, look no further than these adorable Breadstick Snakes! This recipe is not only a hit with kids but also a delightful treat for adults. The combination of spooky shapes and savory flavors makes them perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family get-together. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, so you can whip them up in no time!

What I love most about these Breadstick Snakes is how versatile they are. You can modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making them a great option for those spontaneous snack cravings. So let’s dive into this fun recipe that will surely slither its way into your hearts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and Festive: These snake-shaped breadsticks add a whimsical touch to any Halloween celebration.
• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these tasty snacks ready for your guests in no time!
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen, from rolling the dough to placing the “eyes” on their snakes.
• Savory Goodness: The blend of olive oil and seeds gives these breadsticks a delightful flavor that pairs well with dips.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how simple and wholesome ingredients can create something so delightful! Grab these few items from your kitchen, and you’re ready to craft some creepy-crawly Breadstick Snakes.

For the Breadsticks

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients that suit your taste.

• Switch Up the Dough: Use whole wheat or gluten-free pizza dough for a healthier twist.
• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle some garlic powder or Italian seasoning into the dough for an extra flavor punch.
• Try Different Toppings: Experiment with different seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
• Make Them Sweet: Swap out savory toppings for cinnamon sugar and serve with icing as dessert snakes!

How to Make Breadstick Snakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your breadsticks will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Eyes and Tongues

Cut the black olives into small pieces for eyes and slice the red bell pepper into forked tongues. Setting these aside now makes it easier when assembling later on!

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Unroll your refrigerated pizza dough on a clean surface. Cutting it into 12 strips along the long side creates perfect ropes for our snakes.

Step 4: Shape Your Snakes

Roll each strip into 12-inch ropes, tapering one end for the tail while flattening the other end for the head. This shaping adds character to each snake!

Step 5: Wrap Around Chopsticks

Carefully wrap each rope around a greased wooden chopstick or metal straw in a spiral pattern. This step not only gives them their snake-like form but also helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 6: Add Olive Eyes & Bake

Brush each snake with olive oil before sprinkling them with poppy or sesame seeds. Don’t forget to place black olives on their heads as eyes! Bake these beauties on parchment-lined sheets until golden brown—around 11 to 15 minutes should do it.

Step 7: Add Forked Tongues

After letting them cool slightly, use a toothpick or skewer to thread red pepper tongues into each snake’s flat end. This final touch makes them even more fun and spooky!

Now you’re all set! Serve these delightful Breadstick Snakes at your next gathering, and watch as they disappear in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Breadstick Snakes

Making your Breadstick Snakes is a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Pizza Dough: Opting for fresh refrigerated pizza dough enhances the flavor and texture, making your snakes fluffy and delicious.
• Experiment with Shapes: Don’t hesitate to create different snake shapes! Tapering the ends in various ways can give each snake a unique personality, which is particularly fun for kids.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to mix and match your seeds. Adding garlic powder or Italian herbs can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the dough beautifully.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary significantly. Start checking your breadsticks at 10 minutes to prevent overbaking; you want them golden brown without being too dark.
• Serve Warm: Breadsticks are best enjoyed warm! Serve them immediately from the oven for that perfect soft texture, and they’ll be a hit at your gathering.

How to Serve Breadstick Snakes

Presentation can make all the difference when serving your Breadstick Snakes. With a little creativity, these spooky treats can become the star of your Halloween spread!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can add a pop of color and freshness, making your dish visually appealing.
• Spicy Dipping Sauce: Offer a small bowl of marinara or spicy ketchup on the side for dipping. This adds a fun interactive element while complementing the savory flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus provides a crunchy contrast to the soft breadsticks.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: This cheesy treat pairs perfectly with your snakes and adds another layer of flavor to your spread. Plus, who doesn’t love garlic bread?
• Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup not only aligns with the fall theme but also makes for a comforting accompaniment to your spooky snacks.

Enjoy serving up these fun Breadstick Snakes at your next gathering! They’re sure to delight everyone with their playful appearance and delicious taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Breadstick Snakes are not only fun to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip them up in advance, making your Halloween party planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the breadsticks to cool completely after baking.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350° F and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• For refrigerated leftovers, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven until they regain their crispiness.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Breadstick Snakes that might help you out.

Can I use a different type of dough for Breadstick Snakes?

Absolutely! While pizza dough is perfect, you can use bread dough or even homemade dough if you prefer. Just ensure it’s easy to shape into ropes!

How can I make my Breadstick Snakes more colorful?

Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can add various seeds or use colored bell peppers for tongues. Making unique designs adds a fun twist!

Are Breadstick Snakes suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! You can substitute regular pizza dough with gluten-free pizza dough available at most grocery stores.

How do I ensure my Breadstick Snakes are crispy?

Brushing them with olive oil before baking helps achieve that lovely crisp texture. Baking them at the right temperature is key too!

Final Thoughts

I hope you have as much fun making these Breadstick Snakes as I do! They’re truly a delightful addition to any Halloween gathering, bringing both taste and a dash of creativity. Enjoy the process, share them with friends and family, and let your imagination run wild with fun shapes and toppings. Happy baking!