Yummy Halloween Appetizers: Cheesy Breadstick Bones are a fun and tasty treat that’s perfect for adding some spooky spirit to your party. These breadsticks look like little bones, all cheesy and golden, making them a playful snack that both kids and adults will love. The mix of soft dough and gooey melted cheese makes every bite super satisfying.
I love making these cheesy breadstick bones because they’re so simple to whip up but still make a big impression. The best part is shaping the dough into bone shapes—it’s a little hands-on fun that gets everyone in the Halloween mood before you even start snacking. I usually bake them fresh so they’re warm and gooey, but they’re just as tasty cooled down too.
For serving, I like to line them up on a platter with a few little bowls of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. It makes this spooky snack super social, and everyone can grab a bone and dunk it their way. These cheesy breadstick bones really add a playful and delicious touch to any Halloween gathering, and I find they disappear quickly every time I make them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuit or Pizza Dough: I prefer refrigerated biscuit dough for its convenience and softness. Pizza dough works too—just roll it out thin. For a gluten-free option, try store-bought gluten-free dough or flatbread.
Mozzarella and Cheddar Cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that gooey texture, while cheddar adds flavor and color. You can swap with any melty cheese like Monterey Jack or Colby if you want.
Black Olives or Black Peppercorns: These tiny pieces form the ghost’s eyes. Black olives are flavorful but if you want a fun twist, you can use small bits of black sesame seeds or edible food coloring dots.
Butter & Garlic Powder: Brushing the ghosts with butter makes the dough golden and tasty. Garlic powder adds an extra kick, but onion powder or Italian seasoning could work too if you want a different flavor.
How Do You Shape the Dough Into Fun Ghosts Easily?
Shaping the dough to look like little ghosts is the key to the fun here. Here’s a simple way:
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick for a good balance of soft and crispy.
- Cut rectangles roughly 3×2 inches, then pinch small “arms” on each side by making little folds sticking out.
- If you want, use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter to save time and get a neat shape.
- Press two small black olives or peppercorns near the top for eyes before baking.
Taking a little time to shape the ghosts gives them personality, and the melted cheese seals in the deliciousness. If you skip shaping, they’ll still taste great but won’t be quite as spooky!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for even baking and easy cleanup with parchment paper.
- Parchment paper – keeps the cheesy breadsticks from sticking and helps with cleanup.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the dough evenly for consistent ghost shapes.
- Sharp knife or cookie cutter – great for cutting the dough into ghost shapes quickly.
- Small spoon or brush – for brushing melted butter on the dough to get a golden finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar and mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to add a mild spicy kick to your ghosts.
- Add chopped cooked bacon or pepperoni for a meaty twist that pairs well with melted cheese.
- Mix in herbs like rosemary or Italian seasoning into the butter for extra aroma and flavor.
- Top with a sprinkle of parmesan before baking for a sharper, savory touch.
Yummy Halloween Appetizers: Cheesy Ghost Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (or pizza dough)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Black olives or black peppercorns (for eyes)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 12–15 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at roughly 25 minutes total. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for last-minute party snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it so your cheesy ghost breadsticks don’t stick.
2. Shape the Ghosts:
Roll out the biscuit or pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut the dough into ghost shapes by making rectangles about 3×2 inches with little “arms” pinned out on each side, or use a ghost-shaped cookie cutter if you have one.
3. Add Cheese and Butter:
Mix together the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Brush each ghost-shaped piece lightly with melted butter, then sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the top.
4. Make the Eyes and Bake:
Place the ghosts on your baking sheet. Add two small pieces of black olives or black peppercorns near the top to create eyes. Then bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let your cheesy ghosts cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping—perfect for your spooky Halloween party!
Can I Use Frozen Dough for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen dough, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before rolling it out. This helps the dough roll smoothly and bake evenly.
Can I Prepare the Breadsticks Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the ghost breadsticks and add the cheese topping in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and bake just before your party for the freshest taste.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces Besides Marinara?
Ranch dressing, garlic butter sauce, or a cheesy queso dip all pair wonderfully with these cheesy ghost breadsticks. Feel free to get creative!
