Twisted Cheese Breadsticks

Featured in breads.

Hey friend! You've got to try these amazing twisted cheese breadsticks - they're absolute game changers! Look at that gorgeous golden brown color and the way the cheese melts into each twist. The herb flecks add such amazing flavor, and trust me, the smell while these are baking will drive everyone crazy! They're surprisingly easy to make and pull apart with the most satisfying cheese stretch. Perfect for your next movie night or as a side with pasta. Your family will beg you to make these again!

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Updated on Fri, 16 May 2025 20:57:50 GMT
Homemade twisted breadsticks topped with melted cheddar cheese and herbs on a wooden board pin it
Homemade twisted breadsticks topped with melted cheddar cheese and herbs on a wooden board | lonerecipes.com

I first encountered these twisted cheese breadsticks at a friend's dinner party and immediately had to have the recipe. The beautiful golden twists with melted cheddar caught my eye across the room, and after just one bite, I was hooked. The outside has this perfect light crispness while the inside stays soft and chewy. What I love most is how the cheese melts into all the nooks and crannies of the twisted dough, ensuring you get that savory flavor in every bite. The herbs add just the right amount of aromatic quality that elevates these from simple breadsticks to something special. After making them countless times, I've perfected my own version that always gets rave reviews. The twisting technique might seem intimidating at first, but it's actually quite simple once you try it.

Why I love this recipe

I absolutely adore this twisted cheese breadstick recipe for so many reasons. First, it's incredibly forgiving - even beginners can achieve impressive results. There's something almost therapeutic about twisting each breadstick by hand, making this recipe as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. The aroma that fills the kitchen while they bake is simply divine - that combination of yeasty bread, melting cheese, and herbs is enough to make anyone's mouth water. I love how versatile they are; they work equally well for casual family dinners or more elegant gatherings. But most of all, I love the way people's eyes light up when I bring these to the table. That moment when someone takes their first bite and gives that look of pure satisfaction - that's what makes cooking worthwhile. These breadsticks have become my signature dish, the one friends and family specifically request when we get together.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • All-purpose flour: Forms the base of our breadstick dough, providing structure and texture
  • Active dry yeast: Creates the rise and airy texture in the breadsticks
  • Cheddar cheese: Adds rich flavor and creates those beautiful golden brown spots
  • Olive oil: Enriches the dough and helps create a tender texture
  • Garlic powder: Infuses the dough with savory flavor throughout
  • Italian seasoning: Adds aromatic herb flavor to complement the cheese

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the dough
Mix your dry ingredients first, then add the olive oil and warm water. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Knead until it's smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten for the perfect texture.
Rest and shape
Let the dough rest briefly before dividing and shaping. This short rest makes the dough more pliable and easier to work with. When twisting, try to create even strands for the most attractive presentation.
Cheese application
The butter helps the cheese stick to the breadsticks while adding richness. Make sure to distribute the cheese evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Perfect baking
Watch your breadsticks carefully during the last few minutes of baking. You want them golden brown with spots of caramelized cheese, but not overly dark. Every oven is different, so adjust timing as needed.
Serving suggestion
These breadsticks are best served warm when the cheese is still slightly gooey. If making ahead, slightly underbake them, then finish baking just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Recipe picture pin it
Freshly baked cheesy garlic breadsticks arranged in neat rows with perfect golden crust | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

The first time I made these twisted cheese breadsticks, I was planning to serve them with lasagna for a family dinner. I was running short on time, so I decided to try a shortcut by twisting the dough right after mixing instead of letting it rise first. To my surprise, they turned out even better - chewier with a more interesting texture! Now I always make them this way. Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese for a subtle kick that complements Italian dishes beautifully.

Perfect Pairings

These Twisted Cheese Breadsticks are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with so many dishes. Serve them alongside a hearty bowl of tomato basil soup for dipping, or with your favorite pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or fettuccine alfredo. They make an excellent accompaniment to salads, turning a light meal into something more substantial. For entertaining, serve them with a selection of dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic butter. They're also perfect with chili or as part of an antipasto platter.

Golden brown braided breadsticks with gooey cheddar cheese and Italian seasoning pin it
Golden brown braided breadsticks with gooey cheddar cheese and Italian seasoning | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Alternatively, you can fully bake the breadsticks, cool completely, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat frozen breadsticks in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warm.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar provides great flavor and color, you can substitute or combine with mozzarella, parmesan, gruyere, or any melting cheese you prefer. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile and melting characteristic.

→ How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?

The dough should be smooth and elastic. If you press your finger into it, it should spring back. Another test is the "windowpane test" - stretch a small piece of dough between your fingers; if it stretches thin enough to see light through without tearing, it's ready.

→ My breadsticks didn't rise much. What went wrong?

This could be due to old/inactive yeast, water that was too hot (which kills yeast), or not enough resting time. Make sure your yeast is fresh and that the water is warm (105-115°F) but not hot. Even though this recipe uses a quick rest rather than a full rise, the yeast still needs to be active.

→ Can I make these without garlic for a milder flavor?

Yes, you can omit the garlic powder for a milder flavor. You might want to add a bit more salt or herbs to ensure the breadsticks still have good flavor. Alternatively, you could reduce the amount of garlic powder rather than eliminating it completely.

→ How do I store leftover breadsticks?

Store completely cooled breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh them, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.

Conclusion

These Twisted Cheese Breadsticks are the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Soft, chewy, and bursting with cheesy goodness, they're guaranteed to disappear quickly from your table. The beautiful twisted shape not only looks impressive but creates the perfect texture - crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Make a double batch because everyone will be reaching for seconds!

Twisted Cheese Breadsticks

Soft, twisted breadsticks baked to golden perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese and aromatic herbs.

Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
40 Minutes
By: chris

Category: breads

Difficulty: easy

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 12 Servings (12 balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, Dairy

Ingredients

012 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
021 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
031 tbsp sugar
041 tsp salt
051 tbsp garlic powder
062 tbsp olive oil
073/4 cup warm water
081 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
092 tbsp melted butter
101 tsp Italian seasoning
111/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and garlic powder. Add olive oil and warm water, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 02

Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes. This short rest helps the gluten relax, making the dough easier to shape.

Step 03

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope about 8 inches long, then fold in half and twist the two strands together. Place the twisted breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.

Step 04

Brush each twisted breadstick with melted butter. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the breadsticks, ensuring good coverage.

Step 05

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and black pepper over the cheese-topped breadsticks. This adds flavor and a beautiful appearance to the finished product.

Step 06

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 12-15 minutes, until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Serve warm for the best experience.

Notes

  1. For the best results, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If you're unsure, proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding to the flour mixture.
  2. The dough can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping.
  3. Try different cheese combinations like mozzarella and parmesan for variety.
  4. If you don't have Italian seasoning, use a combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
  5. These breadsticks freeze well after baking. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush
  • Kitchen towel

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Wheat (from all-purpose flour)
  • Dairy (from cheddar cheese and butter)
  • Yeast

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
  • Protein: 7 g

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