Candy Cane Pizza Twists Recipe
Candy Cane Pizza Twists are a fun and festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. Using pizza dough twisted with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and oregano, these savory treats resemble candy canes and are baked to golden perfection.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 twists 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Pizza Dough
Filling
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Dried oregano, to taste
- Prepare Oven and Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape on a floured surface to make it easy to spread the toppings.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then lightly sprinkle dried oregano on top for flavor.
- Cut and Twist: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough lengthwise into thin strips about 1 inch wide. Take each strip, twist it gently several times to create the candy cane effect.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Place the twisted strips onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each twist lightly with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.
- Bake to Golden: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set and prevent burns.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle garlic powder or red pepper flakes on the sauce before adding cheese.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture, or a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar.
- These twists are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for crispiness.
- Gluten-free pizza dough can be substituted to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Keywords: pizza twists, candy cane pizza, holiday appetizers, festive snacks, pizza dough recipe