Mummy Mozzarella Sticks are a fun and tasty twist on classic mozzarella sticks, perfect for Halloween or any spooky-themed snack time! These cheesy sticks are wrapped in golden, flaky dough that looks like little mummies with playful eyes peeking out. The crispy outside and melty cheese inside make them a total crowd-pleaser.
I love making these because they’re so easy to put together, and the kids get a kick out of the mummy design. Whenever I make these, I sneak a few extra for myself before anyone notices! My little trick is to use a bit of black olive or peppercorn for the eyes, which adds just the right spooky touch without any fuss.
These are great served warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. I like to set them out during a party or even as a fun after-school snack. Everyone loves how crispy and cheesy they are, and the cute mummy shapes always bring a smile. If you’re looking for a playful, cheesy treat that’s easy and fun, give Mummy Mozzarella Sticks a try!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Sticks: Use string cheese sticks for ease and perfect melting. If you want a different flavor, try pepper jack or cheddar—but mozzarella melts best for that stretchy, gooey effect.
Crescent Roll Dough/Puff Pastry: Crescent roll dough is softer and easier to handle, while puff pastry creates flakier, crispier mummies. Either works great; you can use refrigerated or frozen dough thawed before wrapping.
Breadcrumbs & Parmesan: The seasoned breadcrumbs add crunch and flavor, while Parmesan adds a savory note. If you’re gluten-free, swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or crushed cornflakes.
Black Olives or Peppercorns: These make simple, fun “eyes.” If you don’t have olives, use small dots of black sesame seeds or even tiny bits of nori (seaweed).
How Do You Wrap the Mozzarella to Look Like Mummies Without Cheese Leaking?
Wrapping the cheese so it looks like bandages but doesn’t leak is the trickiest part. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut thin dough strips, about 1/4 inch wide, for easy wrapping and crispiness.
- Wrap loosely in a diagonal pattern, leaving some gaps to create the mummy effect but not too tight or overlapping too much.
- Chill the wrapped sticks in the fridge for 10 minutes before dipping in egg wash and breadcrumbs to firm up the dough and help it hold.
- Don’t over-bake! About 12-15 minutes at 400°F is enough to crisp the outside and melt the cheese inside without bursting.
These steps keep your mummies looking cute and the cheese perfectly gooey inside without making a mess.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – for even baking and crisping of the mozzarella sticks.
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier.
- Mixing bowls – one for the egg wash, one for the breadcrumb coating.
- Whisk or fork – to mix the egg and water for the egg wash smoothly.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – to cut thin strips of dough easily.
- Tongs or your hands – for dipping and coating the sticks without making a mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use pepper jack cheese sticks for a spicy twist that adds a little heat.
- Swap crescent dough for puff pastry for a flakier, buttery crust.
- Add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to breadcrumbs to boost flavor.
- Try mini pepperoni slices tucked under the dough strips for a meaty surprise.
Mummy Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese sticks)
- 1 package (8 oz) crescent roll dough or puff pastry
For the Coating:
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Other Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp water
- Black olives or black peppercorns (for eyes)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for brushing
- Marinara sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. You’ll spend time wrapping the mozzarella sticks carefully, coating them, then baking until golden and crispy. A little cooling time is needed before serving too—so plan for about 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing Your Baking Tray and Coating
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep the sticks from sticking. In a shallow bowl, mix the Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg with water to make an egg wash.
2. Wrapping Your Mozzarella Sticks
Unroll your crescent roll dough or puff pastry and cut it into thin strips, roughly ¼ inch wide. Take each mozzarella stick and wrap the dough strips diagonally around it, leaving little gaps to look like mummy bandages.
3. Coating and Adding Eyes
Dip each wrapped stick in the egg wash, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture so it’s fully coated. Place them on your prepared baking sheet. Add small pieces of black olives or peppercorns as “eyes” peeking through the dough strips for the spooky look.
4. Baking to Perfection
Lightly spray or brush the sticks with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up nicely. Bake them in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until they’re golden brown and crisp. Watch carefully to stop baking before the cheese leaks out.
5. Cooling and Serving
Let the mummy sticks cool for a couple of minutes so they set up and won’t burn your fingers. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy your fun, delicious Halloween treat!
Can I Use Frozen Mozzarella Sticks for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the mozzarella sticks in the fridge before wrapping. This prevents excess moisture and helps the cheese melt evenly without leaking.
Can I Make Mummy Mozzarella Sticks Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can wrap and coat them ahead, then refrigerate on the baking sheet for up to 4 hours before baking. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep the coating crispy.
What’s a Good Dipping Sauce Alternative to Marinara?
If you want something different, try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. All add great flavor to the cheesy mummies!
