Candy Cane Pizza Twists are the festive treat that will jingle your taste buds and make your holiday season sparkle. Imagine a warm, gooey blend of sweet and savory in every twist, with that unmistakable candy cane flavor shooting through like a sugar-fueled elf on a mission.
Picture this: the aroma of melted cheese and peppermint wafts through your home, making you question why you ever settled for plain old pizza again. These delightful twists are perfect for holiday parties, cozy family nights, or simply when you need to impress last-minute guests who pop by unannounced (thanks, Aunt Karen).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Candy Cane Pizza Twists are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for even the busiest holiday seasons.
- The sweet and savory flavor combination is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
- Their festive appearance will steal the show at any gathering, making them a visual treat on your table.
- Plus, they offer endless customization options—add your favorite toppings and create variations that suit your taste!
Ingredients for Candy Cane Pizza Twists
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought or homemade dough; just ensure it’s fresh for that perfect twist.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for the good stuff! Freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully and adds richness.
- Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way! It gives those iconic candy cane vibes without overwhelming sweetness.
- Candy Canes: Crush these babies for topping; they’ll provide that delightful crunch and explode with holiday cheer.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that golden-brown crust while adding a hint of flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Candy Cane Pizza Twists
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you pop those twists in, they’ll bake perfectly and emerge all golden and gooey.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Make it as neat as possible—not everyone has to know about the flour explosion in your kitchen.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Spread shredded mozzarella evenly over the surface of the dough. Don’t be shy—this is where we want maximum cheesiness!
Step 4: Flavor It Up
In a small bowl, mix some olive oil with peppermint extract. Brush this magical concoction over the cheese-covered dough for that sweet holiday flair.
Step 5: Twist It Up
Cut the dough into strips about an inch wide. Now, twist each strip like you’re wringing out a soggy towel (but more delicately). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Sprinkle crushed candy canes over each twisted masterpiece before baking. This will add not just sweetness but also a festive crunch!
Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, let them cool slightly before serving—if you can resist!
Transfer to plates and serve warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce (marinara works wonders) for an unforgettable holiday appetizer or snack experience.
You Must Know
- These delightful Candy Cane Pizza Twists are not your average holiday treat; they combine the joy of pizza with festive flavors.
- Perfectly easy to whip up, they’ll have your family and friends singing your praises.
- Plus, the vibrant red and white stripes make them a showstopper on any table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve optimal results, start by preheating your oven. Prepare your dough while you melt the candy cane-infused butter. Assemble the twists, and then bake until golden brown, allowing for that perfect contrast of crispy outside and gooey inside.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out regular mozzarella for peppermint-flavored cheese or add sprinkles for extra holiday flair. You could even drizzle chocolate sauce on top if you’re feeling adventurous! Let your creativity shine through these twinkling treats.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Candy Cane Pizza Twists in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispy texture while warming them up.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly twisted pizza delights, ensure your dough is rolled thinly for that ideal crunch.
- Allow the twists to cool before serving to preserve their structure.
- Experiment with different fillings like chocolate chips or nuts for a unique twist on flavor!
When I first made these Candy Cane Pizza Twists, my niece declared them “the best thing ever!” Her wide-eyed excitement reminded me how food can create joyful moments during the holidays—and it’s always a win when kids love what you cook!
FAQs:
What are Candy Cane Pizza Twists?
Candy Cane Pizza Twists are a delightful holiday treat, combining the flavors of pizza with a festive twist. Made from pizza dough, these twists feature a sweet and savory filling that often includes cream cheese, peppermint, and crushed candy canes. They’re perfect for parties or cozy family gatherings during the holiday season. Each bite offers a unique blend of flavors that capture the essence of Christmas.
How do I make Candy Cane Pizza Twists?
To make Candy Cane Pizza Twists, start with your favorite pizza dough. Roll it out into a rectangle, spread a mixture of cream cheese, peppermint extract, and sugar evenly on top. Sprinkle crushed candy canes for added flavor and crunch. Cut the dough into strips, twist them, and bake until golden brown. Once cooled slightly, drizzle with white chocolate for an extra festive touch.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for Candy Cane Pizza Twists?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pizza dough to save time when making Candy Cane Pizza Twists. Many grocery stores offer pre-made options that taste great. This convenience allows you to focus more on preparing the delicious filling and less on making the dough from scratch.
Are Candy Cane Pizza Twists suitable for kids?
Candy Cane Pizza Twists are not only easy to make but also fun for kids to help with! They can assist in rolling out the dough and twisting it into shape. Plus, the sweet flavors appeal to children’s tastes, making this treat a hit during holiday gatherings or family movie nights.
Conclusion for Candy Cane Pizza Twists:
In summary, Candy Cane Pizza Twists are a wonderful blend of sweet and savory that captures the spirit of the holiday season. With simple ingredients like pizza dough and cream cheese filling, they are easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as an after-dinner treat, these twists will surely delight everyone. Don’t forget to add your own creative touches!
Candy Cane Pizza Twists
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 twists 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Candy Cane Pizza Twists are a festive, cheesy delight infused with peppermint and topped with crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these treats will impress everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
- Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella over the dough.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with peppermint extract. Brush this mixture over the cheese-covered dough.
- Cut the dough into strips about an inch wide.
- Twist each strip gently and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes over each twisted piece.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twist (approx. 40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, consider adding seasonal herbs or spices to your filling. - Try drizzling with melted chocolate for a fun variation!
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