Irresistible Candy Cane Pizza Twists for the Holidays

Indulging in a plate of Candy Cane Pizza Twists is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a snowy day. The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors will make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Imagine biting into gooey, melted cheese intertwined with the festive zing of peppermint. It’s the culinary equivalent of a holiday hug, and trust me, you’ll want to share this experience with everyone you know.

Every year, during the holiday season, my family gathers around the kitchen like moths to a flame. The aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air as we whip up our favorite recipes. These Candy Cane Pizza Twists have become our go-to dish for cozy family nights and casual get-togethers. Not only do they look festive, but they also bring everyone together over laughter and deliciousness.

Ingredients for Candy Cane Pizza Twists

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own from scratch for a personal touch.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for that gooey texture that stretches perfectly with every bite.
• Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness and creaminess that balances the flavors beautifully.
• Crushed Peppermints: Use candy canes crushed into small pieces to sprinkle throughout the pizza twists for that holiday flair.
• Egg Wash: A simple mixture of egg and water gives your pizza twists that golden-brown finish, making them extra inviting.

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

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting for it to heat up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Roll Out Your Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a rectangular shape. Aim for about ¼-inch thickness so that it bakes evenly without burning.

Step 3: Spread Cream Cheese

Using a spatula, spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese over the dough. Make sure to cover every inch because creamy goodness is key.

Step 4: Sprinkle the Goodies

Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the cream cheese layer followed by crushed peppermints. This is where the magic happens—sweet meets savory!

Step 5: Cut and Twist

Carefully slice the dough into strips about an inch wide. Take each strip and twist it twice before placing it on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Brush with Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together one egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this egg wash over each twisted piece; this will help them achieve that lovely golden color when baked.

Once baked until golden brown—about 15-20 minutes—let them cool slightly before diving in! Transfer the Candy Cane Pizza Twists to plates and serve warm—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with Candy Cane Pizza Twists, prepare your dough first. Roll it out while preheating the oven. After that, assemble your twists and bake them until golden brown for that irresistible crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Candy Cane Pizza Twists! Swap out mozzarella for cheddar or add your favorite toppings like pepperoni or olives. For a sweet twist, sprinkle some powdered sugar or drizzle chocolate over the top.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Candy Cane Pizza Twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again.

It’s funny how my friends always expect me to bring my “famous” Candy Cane Pizza Twists to every holiday party. One year, I nearly forgot them—imagine the horror! But let’s just say, they made it just in time for dessert and were devoured instantly!

FAQs:

What are Candy Cane Pizza Twists?

Candy Cane Pizza Twists are a festive and fun treat that combines the flavors of pizza with the holiday spirit. These twists are made using pizza dough, filled with sweet or savory ingredients, and shaped like candy canes. They are perfect for holiday parties or as a unique dessert. You can customize the filling to suit your taste, making them versatile for any occasion.

How do I make Candy Cane Pizza Twists?

To make Candy Cane Pizza Twists, start by rolling out your pizza dough. Cut it into strips and add your choice of filling, such as cream cheese frosting or marinara sauce with cheese. Twist the strips into a candy cane shape and bake until golden brown. The result is a delicious combination of flavors that will impress your guests and delight your family during the holidays.

Can I use store-bought dough for Candy Cane Pizza Twists?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought dough for Candy Cane Pizza Twists! This option saves time and makes the recipe even easier. Look for pre-made pizza dough in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Once you have your dough, simply follow the same steps to create these festive treats without the hassle of making dough from scratch.

What toppings work best with Candy Cane Pizza Twists?

Candy Cane Pizza Twists can be topped with various ingredients depending on whether you prefer sweet or savory options. For sweet twists, consider using chocolate chips, crushed peppermint candies, or icing drizzle. If you’re going savory, try mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, or fresh herbs. Feel free to get creative with your toppings to make these twists uniquely yours!

Conclusion for Candy Cane Pizza Twists:

In summary, Candy Cane Pizza Twists blend festive fun with delicious flavors, making them a great addition to any holiday gathering. By utilizing simple ingredients and customizable fillings, you can create a treat that appeals to everyone. Whether you choose sweet or savory variations, these twists will surely become a favorite during the festive season. Enjoy this delightful recipe as a unique way to celebrate the holidays!

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Candy Cane Pizza Twists

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Enjoy a delightful blend of gooey cheese and peppermint in these easy-to-make Candy Cane Pizza Twists, perfect for any holiday gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermints (candy canes)
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp water

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape, about ¼-inch thick.
3. Spread an even layer of softened cream cheese over the entire dough surface.
4. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the cream cheese layer, followed by crushed peppermints.
5. Slice the dough into strips about one inch wide. Twist each strip twice and place on the prepared baking sheet.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water. Brush this mixture over each twisted piece.
7. Bake until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 twist (40g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Customize your twists by substituting mozzarella with cheddar or adding toppings like chocolate chips for sweet variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for crispness.