Broomstick Breadsticks Recipe – Parmesan Romano Cheese Twists

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Broomstick Breadsticks Recipe – Parmesan Romano Cheese Twists

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this super fun and easy recipe with you – Broomstick Breadsticks! These aren’t just delicious; they’re adorable, especially around Halloween or fall. I first made these with my niece and nephew a few years ago, and it’s become a tradition ever since. They love helping to twist the “broom bristles,” and honestly, they disappear pretty quickly once they’re baked! Let’s get baking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These broomstick breadsticks are the perfect party snack! They’re quick to whip up – seriously, from start to finish, you’re looking at around 25 minutes. Plus, they’re incredibly satisfying. The salty, cheesy crunch combined with a warm marinara dip? Yes, please! They’re also a fantastic way to get kids involved in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these magical broomsticks:

• 1 can (11 oz) Pillsbury™ refrigerated original breadsticks
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 3 tablespoons Romano Cheese, grated
• 3 tablespoons Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese, grated

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a moment. A few little things can make a big difference!

• Pillsbury Breadstick Dough: This is the base of our magic! It’s convenient and consistently delivers a great texture. You can find this in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil will add a lovely flavour. Don’t go for anything too overpowering, though – we want the cheese to shine.
• Romano vs. Parmigiano-Reggiano: These cheeses are both Italian hard cheeses, but they have distinct personalities. Romano is sharper and saltier, while Parmigiano-Reggiano is more nutty and complex. Using both gives you the best of both worlds! Parmigiano-Reggiano originates from the Parma region of Italy, and is aged for a minimum of 12 months, while Romano comes from the Lazio region.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get to the fun part!

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Unroll your Pillsbury breadstick dough and separate it into individual sticks.
3. Now, for the twisting! Take each breadstick and gently twist it 3 times to create a rope-like shape. Then, stretch it out to about 8 inches (20 cm) long.
4. This is where the “broom” comes to life. Flatten one end of each breadstick slightly, and using a knife (carefully!), make 5-6 vertical cuts to create those broom bristles.
5. Brush each breadstick with olive oil. This helps the cheese stick and gives them a beautiful golden colour.
6. Generously sprinkle both Romano and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese over the breadsticks. Don’t be shy!
7. Bake for 11 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overbake! You want them golden, not burnt.
• If your breadsticks are sticking a little, a tiny spritz of cooking spray under the parchment paper can help.
• For extra flavour, brush with garlic-infused olive oil.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the cheese mixture for a little extra kick. My friend Sarah loves adding a pinch of red pepper flakes too!
• Festival Adaptations: For Halloween, use black sesame seeds instead of cheese for a spooky look. During fall, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar alongside the cheese is divine.

Serving Suggestions

These are best served warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. A simple green salad also makes a lovely accompaniment. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun snack with the family.

Storage Instructions

Leftover broomsticks (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, though, as they’ll lose some of their crispness.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What type of marinara sauce pairs best with these breadsticks? A classic marinara is perfect, but a roasted garlic marinara or even a spicy arrabbiata would be delicious!
• Can I make these ahead of time? You can assemble the breadsticks and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Mozzarella, Asiago, or even a sprinkle of cheddar would work well.
• Can I freeze the baked breadsticks? I wouldn’t recommend freezing baked breadsticks, as they can become soggy when thawed.
• What is the difference between Romano and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese? Romano is a sharper, saltier cheese, while Parmigiano-Reggiano is more nutty and complex. They both add fantastic flavour, but in different ways!

Enjoy these whimsical and tasty broomstick breadsticks! I hope they bring a little magic to your kitchen. Let me know in the comments how yours turn out!