Ingredients (Makes 4 breadsticks)
1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent dough sheet
1 cup shredded mozzarella or thin strips of fresh mozzarella
½ cup marinara or pizza sauce
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
1–2 tbsp fresh thyme (optional)
1 egg (optional, for egg wash)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the dough
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease it.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface.
Cut the dough into 4 long strips, each about 1.5–2 inches wide.
2. Shape the candy canes
Roll each strip slightly to smooth and stretch them.
Curve the top of each strip to form a candy cane hook.
Transfer them gently to the baking sheet.
3. Add the cheese
Lay mozzarella strips or shredded mozzarella along each dough strip.
Lightly press so it adheres to the dough.
4. Add the sauce swirl
Spoon or pipe marinara sauce in diagonal stripes, alternating with the cheese to create the candy-cane look.
Let some sauce drip slightly over the edges for that melted effect.
5. Season & finish
Brush the exposed dough with olive oil (or egg wash for extra shine).
Sprinkle Italian seasoning and optional fresh thyme.
Season lightly with salt & pepper.
6. Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until:
The dough is golden
The cheese is melted and bubbling
The stripes look defined
Let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
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