Breadstick Snakes

These Breadstick Snakes are not just fun to eat; they’re also a fantastic treat for various occasions! Perfect for Halloween parties, these savory breadsticks appeal to both kids and adults, making them an ideal snack or side dish. With their unique snake shape and playful presentation, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delightful breadsticks in no time.
• Fun Presentation: The snake shape adds an exciting twist, perfect for themed parties or casual gatherings.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or dipping sauces to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping in the kitchen and eating their creations, making this a great family activity.
• Savory Flavor: The combination of olive oil, poppy seeds, and sesame seeds creates a deliciously crispy texture.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Breadstick Snakes, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure that your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden chopsticks or metal straws
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Mixing bowl
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden chopsticks or metal straws: These help create the classic snake shape by providing support while baking.
• Parchment paper: This prevents the breadsticks from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal after baking.
• Baking sheets: A sturdy surface is key for even cooking and browning of your Breadstick Snakes.

Ingredients

For the Breadstick Dough

• 13.8 ounce tube refrigerated pizza dough

For the Snake Features

• 3 black olives
• Piece of a red bell pepper

For the Topping

• 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. This ensures that your Breadstick Snakes bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Snake Features

Cut the black olives into small pieces to create eyes for your snakes. Next, slice the red bell pepper into forked tongues. Set these aside for later use.

Step 3: Unroll the Pizza Dough

Unroll the tube of refrigerated pizza dough on a clean surface. This is where your fun begins!

Step 4: Cut and Shape the Dough

Cut the dough into 12 strips along the long side. Roll each strip into a 12-inch rope. Taper one end for the tail and flatten the other end for the head.

Step 5: Create the Snake Shape

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

Step 6: Add Eyes to Your Snakes

Position the black olive pieces on top of each snake’s head to serve as eyes. This adds personality to your edible creations!

Step 7: Bake in the Oven

Place your prepared snakes on two parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake them at 350° F until they turn golden brown, which should take about 11 to 15 minutes. Let them cool for about three minutes before carefully removing them from chopsticks.

Step 8: Finish with Forked Tongues

While still warm, take a toothpick or skewer to carefully thread red peppers into each flat end of your snakes to create forked tongues. Now they’re ready to serve!

Enjoy these fun and delicious Breadstick Snakes at your next gathering!

How to Serve Breadstick Snakes

These fun and creative Breadstick Snakes are perfect for any gathering, especially during Halloween. Here are some great ideas on how to serve them for maximum enjoyment!

Fun Halloween Platter

• Arrange the snakes on a large platter surrounded by small bowls of dipping sauces like marinara or ranch for a festive touch.

Snack for Movie Night

• Serve these breadsticks alongside your favorite spooky movie. They make a great finger food that’s easy to eat while watching.

Halloween-Themed Dinner

• Include the Breadstick Snakes as part of a themed dinner, pairing them with other Halloween-inspired dishes like pumpkin soup or spooky salad.

Kids’ Party Treats

• Perfect for kids, set up a DIY station where children can decorate their own snakes with different toppings before baking.

Game Night Snack

• Offer these breadsticks as an easy snack while playing games. They’re fun and engaging, making your game night even more entertaining.

How to Perfect Breadstick Snakes

Making perfect Breadstick Snakes is all about technique and presentation. Follow these tips for the best results!

• Use fresh dough: Fresh refrigerated pizza dough yields the best flavor and texture. Avoid expired products for optimal results.

• Taper the ends: When shaping the snakes, taper one end for the tail and flatten the other end for the head. This makes them look more realistic and fun!

• Brush generously: Don’t skimp on olive oil when brushing before baking; it adds flavor and helps achieve that golden brown color.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding other seeds or spices to create unique flavors. Garlic powder or Italian seasoning can elevate your breadsticks.

• Cool before serving: Allow them to cool slightly after baking to avoid burns when removing from chopsticks.

Best Side Dishes for Breadstick Snakes

Breadstick Snakes pair well with various side dishes that complement their savory flavor. Consider these options:

1. Garlic Butter Pasta: A creamy pasta dish flavored with garlic butter fits perfectly alongside these breadsticks for a hearty meal.

2. Vegetable Platter: Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and cherry tomatoes add crunch and color, providing a healthy contrast to the breadsticks.

3. Pumpkin Soup: This warm and comforting soup has seasonal flavors that pair well with the savory breadsticks, creating a delightful combination.

4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds freshness and richness, enhancing the overall dining experience alongside your snake-shaped treats.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make an excellent side dish that is both nutritious and visually appealing.

6. Cheesy Garlic Bread: For those who love cheese, cheesy garlic bread is an indulgent option that pairs well with any Italian-inspired meal.

7. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the breadsticks while adding a crunchy texture to your plate.

8. Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters can add another layer of flavor and texture to your spread while maintaining a fun party atmosphere.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Breadstick Snakes is a fun and easy process, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to less than perfect results.

• Overworking the Dough: Stretching or kneading the dough too much can make it tough. Handle it gently to keep it soft and pliable.
• Inconsistent Strip Sizes: Cutting the dough into uneven strips can result in uneven baking. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
• Skipping the Greasing Step: Not greasing your chopsticks or straws may cause the breadsticks to stick. Always grease your tools to make removal easier.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to poor rising and texture. Always preheat your oven to 350° F before baking.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Each oven varies slightly, so keep an eye on your breadsticks. Removing them too early can lead to doughy centers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a day.

Freezing Breadstick Snakes

• Freeze individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Breadstick Snakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. They may become soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Breadstick Snakes.

What are Breadstick Snakes?

Breadstick Snakes are creative savory snacks made from pizza dough, shaped like snakes, making them perfect for parties.

Can I customize my Breadstick Snakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs, cheese, or other toppings before baking for extra flavor.

How do I make gluten-free Breadstick Snakes?

You can use gluten-free pizza dough as an alternative. The shaping and baking process remains the same.

How long do Breadstick Snakes last?

They last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

These Breadstick Snakes are not only a delightful treat for Halloween parties but also versatile enough for any gathering. Their playful design makes them appealing to both kids and adults. Feel free to customize them with different toppings or shapes to suit your occasion!