Oh, the memories! I can still picture Friday nights at home, curled up on the couch, eagerly waiting for that unmistakable red box to arrive. Inside, waiting to be devoured, were those glorious Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks.
They were always the star of the show, perfectly cheesy, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying. If you, like me, have a soft spot for that nostalgic flavor, I have wonderful news! I’ve cracked the code to making the most incredible copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks right in your own kitchen.
This recipe brings all that delightful cheesy goodness home, and you’ll have them ready to enjoy in just over an hour.
Jump To
Why Make These Homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?
I truly believe some of the best food memories are made at home, and recreating a beloved classic like these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks is no exception. Here’s why I think you’ll love making them from scratch:
- Freshness You Can Taste: When I make these, I know exactly what ingredients are going into my food. The difference in freshness, especially with the dough and melted cheese, is truly noticeable and absolutely delicious.
- Customization is Key: Craving extra garlic? More oregano? A different blend of cheeses? Making them at home means you are the chef! I can tailor the flavors to exactly what my family and I love most, which makes them even more special.
- Easier Than You Think: Don’t let the idea of making dough intimidate you. I’ve streamlined this recipe to be super approachable, even for a beginner baker. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can whip up a batch.
- Comfort and Nostalgia: There’s something incredibly comforting about recreating a childhood favorite. Each bite takes me back, and I find so much joy in sharing that feeling with others around my table.
What Makes Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks So Good? (And How We Recreate It!)
What makes those original Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks so iconic? For me, it’s that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. I remember the slightly crisp edges, the wonderfully soft and chewy interior, and that blanket of perfectly melted, bubbly cheese infused with savory Italian seasonings. Of course, they were always served with a warm cup of marinara for dipping, which just tied everything together.
My homemade version captures all these elements beautifully. I use a simple, quick-rise dough that bakes up with that ideal crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture. The secret to the flavor lies in the blend of mozzarella and Parmesan, combined with garlic salt and dried oregano, mimicking that classic, savory Italian seasoning blend.
Pouring melted butter over the dough before baking ensures a rich, golden crust, and the cheese melts into a glorious, bubbly topping. Served with marinara, it’s a true taste of nostalgia. If you’re looking for another nostalgic cheesy treat, check out this recipe for crispy homemade mozzarella sticks.
Ingredients for Your Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be ready to bring the magic home!
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (thinly sliced)
- 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons warm water (110°F, divided)
- 1 egg yolk (lightly beaten)
- 1 ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted, divided)
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- marinara sauce for dipping
How to Make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks: Step-by-Step Guide
Making these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Just follow my steps carefully!
- In a small bowl add the yeast, set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced butter, sugar, and salt, set aside.
- Warm the water to 110°F in the microwave or in a small saucepan. Pour half of the water into the bowl with the yeast, stir gently, let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step is important for activating the yeast, ensuring your dough will rise beautifully.
- Pour the remaining water into the bowl with the butter. Let it sit while the yeast is sitting.
- After 5 minutes, whisk the butter mixture until combined, the butter may not fully melt, that’s okay.
- Add the egg yolk and yeast mixture to the wet ingredients, whisk to combine.
- Add the flour and stir it all together until just combined. I like to use a wooden spoon for this, mixing just until no dry streaks of flour remain to avoid overworking the dough.
- From the assembly ingredients, add 2 tablespoons of the melted butter to a 9×13 baking dish and brush it all over the dish. Make sure every corner and side of the dish is coated, this helps achieve that crispy crust.
- Spread the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes. When spreading the dough, I press gently and evenly to avoid tearing it and ensure a consistent thickness for even baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350F. Take off the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Pour the rest of the melted butter on top and brush it all over the dough so it is covered. Don’t skip brushing the butter all over; this is key for a rich flavor and a lovely golden-brown finish.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella all over the top, followed by the parmesan, garlic salt, and dried oregano. I make sure to get the cheese all the way to the edges, as that’s where the best crispy, cheesy bits are!
- Bake for 28-31 minutes until the edges all around the baking dish are dark golden brown and the cheese on top is bubbly and browned. I always keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect deep golden crust without burning.
- Take the pan out of the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Take the breadsticks out of the pan and cut into 8 even slices. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Allowing it to cool briefly helps the cheese set, making for cleaner cuts and easier removal from the pan.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
I’ve made these countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure they come out perfect every time. Here are my top tips for you:
- Mind the Water Temperature for Yeast: The most crucial step for a great dough is activating your yeast properly. I always aim for water that’s around 110°F. If it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate; too hot, and it could kill the yeast. A food thermometer is your best friend here, or if you don’t have one, it should feel comfortably warm to the touch, like a baby’s bath.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: After adding the flour, I only mix until the ingredients are just combined and no dry streaks of flour remain. Over-mixing can develop too much gluten, which leads to a tough, chewy breadstick instead of that wonderful tender interior. A gentle hand is all you need for this dough.
- Achieve That Golden-Brown Edge: The key to that signature Pizza Hut taste is the slightly crisp, deeply golden edges. I make sure to let the cheese sticks bake until the crust around the pan is a rich, dark golden brown. This often means going a minute or two longer than you might think necessary, but it’s worth it for the flavor and texture. If your cheese is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the pan with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Troubleshooting Sticky/Dry Dough: If your dough feels too sticky after mixing, I suggest adding a tablespoon or two more of flour, mixing it in, and checking the consistency again. If it feels too dry and isn’t coming together, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time until it forms a cohesive, slightly tacky dough. Remember, flour absorption can vary based on humidity, so trust your instincts a little here.
Variations & Substitutions for Your Homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
Part of the fun of cooking at home is making a recipe truly your own! Here are some ideas for variations and substitutions for your homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks:
| Ingredient/Component | Substitution Options | Notes/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Cheese | Pepper Jack, Cheddar, Provolone, Fontina | Each adds a unique flavor and melt factor. Mozzarella is classic for stretch. |
| Seasoning | Onion powder, dried basil, fennel seeds, everything bagel seasoning | Adjust to your taste preference. |
| Dough | Store-bought pizza dough | See the “Dough Deep Dive” section for details on adapting. |
| Additions | Mini pepperoni, jalapeño slices | Press into dough before final cheese layer. |
Dough Deep Dive: Homemade vs. Store-Bought for Your Cheese Sticks
When it comes to dough, I’m a big proponent of homemade whenever possible, and for these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks, it truly makes a difference. My recipe uses a quick and easy homemade dough that yields a wonderfully tender crumb and that classic, slightly crisp crust. It tastes incredibly fresh, and I love the satisfaction of creating it from scratch.
If you are looking for a delicious treat to make with your homemade dough, why not try this Amazing Vanilla French Beignets Recipe For Home Bakers?
However, I understand that sometimes time is tight, and store-bought dough can be a fantastic shortcut! You can absolutely use pre-made pizza dough for this recipe. I recommend a fresh, refrigerated pizza dough ball from your grocery store’s deli or refrigerated section rather than a frozen one, as it tends to have a better texture.
If you choose to use store-bought dough, here’s how I would adapt the recipe: Skip steps 1-7 of my instructions. Instead, lightly flour your work surface and gently press or roll out the store-bought dough to fit your 9×13 baking dish.
Then, proceed with step 8, adding the melted butter to the dish and spreading your dough in. You might not need to let it rest for 15 minutes as much as homemade dough, but a quick 5-10 minute rest covered with plastic wrap can help it relax and bake more evenly.
Continue from step 10, adding the remaining melted butter, cheese, and seasonings, then bake as directed. While the homemade dough offers a superior texture and flavor that truly mimics the original, store-bought dough will still give you a delicious, quick cheesy breadstick!
Storage & Reheating Your Delicious Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
I find these cheese sticks are always best fresh from the oven, but sometimes leftovers happen, and I certainly don’t want them to go to waste!
Storage: Once cooled completely, I store any leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, I wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Reheating:
- Oven (Recommended for Best Texture): My favorite way to reheat these is in the oven. I preheat it to 325°F. Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet, and for best results, I tent them loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning while allowing the bread to crisp up. Reheat for 8-10 minutes if refrigerated, or 15-20 minutes if frozen (no need to thaw first), until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again.
- Microwave: While quick, the microwave won’t give you that crispy texture. If you’re in a hurry, I place a cheese stick or two on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. Just know the crust will be softer.
Serving Suggestions & Dipping Sauce Ideas for Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
These homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are amazing on their own, but I love to serve them as part of a bigger spread! Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy them:
- Classic Comfort Meal: Pair them with a hearty bowl of my favorite tomato soup or a light garden salad for a complete, satisfying meal. They also make an excellent side dish for any pasta night, especially alongside a rich lasagna or a simple spaghetti with meatballs. If you are planning a breakfast casserole for the family, these cheese sticks also pair well with easy sausage and egg casserole recipe.
- Game Day Appetizer: These are always a crowd-pleaser for game day! I arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces for an easy, shareable snack.
- Snack Attack: For a quick afternoon treat or an after-school snack, a warm slice of these cheese sticks hits the spot every time.
Dipping Sauce Ideas: While marinara is the traditional pairing, I sometimes like to switch things up!
- Quick Garlic Butter: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter with ½ teaspoon of minced garlic and a pinch of dried parsley. It’s a rich, flavorful dip that complements the cheesy bread perfectly.
- Seasoned Ranch Dressing Hack: Stir a pinch of garlic powder and dried dill into your favorite store-bought ranch dressing for an elevated, savory dip. It’s surprisingly delicious with these cheese sticks!
FAQs About Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
I get asked a lot of questions about making bread and pizza dough, so I’ve put together some answers for you!
How warm should my water be for activating yeast?
I always aim for water that’s between 105°F and 115°F. Around 110°F is perfect. This temperature is warm enough to wake up the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. If it’s too cool, your yeast won’t activate and foam, and your dough won’t rise.
Why didn’t my yeast foam?
There are a few common reasons I’ve found. First, the water might have been too hot or too cold. Second, your yeast might be old or expired; always check the date on the package. Lastly, make sure you’re using active dry yeast as specified in the recipe. If your yeast doesn’t foam, it’s best to start over with new yeast and correctly tempered water.
What if my dough is too sticky or too dry?
Don’t worry, this happens to me too! If your dough is too sticky, I recommend adding a tablespoon of all-purpose flour at a time, mixing until it reaches a manageable, slightly tacky consistency. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of warm water at a time until the dough comes together and feels smooth. Humidity levels can really affect flour absorption.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, I’ve done this before! Instant yeast is more finely ground and doesn’t require proofing in water first. If you’re using instant yeast, I recommend mixing it directly with the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt) in the large bowl, then adding all of the warm water and egg yolk together to the wet ingredients. You might find the dough rises a bit faster with instant yeast.
What essential equipment do I need to make these at home?
You won’t need anything too fancy! I always use a 9×13 inch baking dish, a large mixing bowl, a small bowl for the yeast, a whisk, and a silicone brush for spreading the butter. A kitchen thermometer is very helpful for checking water temperature, but it’s not strictly essential if you’re careful about the warmth.
Conclusion
There’s truly nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread and melting cheese filling my kitchen, especially when it brings back such wonderful memories. Making these homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks is not just about recreating a recipe; it’s about bringing that warmth, comfort, and a touch of delicious nostalgia into your home. I promise you, the joy of pulling these bubbly, golden sticks from the oven, ready to be dipped into marinara, is absolutely unparalleled.
I hope you give this recipe a try! I know you’ll love it. I would absolutely love to hear from you; please share your results on social media and tag Delish Map, or leave a comment below telling me your favorite topping variation! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. Happy cooking, my friends!
Love recreating restaurant favorites at home? Follow us on Pinterest for more comforting copycat recipes like these melty, golden Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks, made from scratch and packed with nostalgia!
Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl add the yeast, set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced butter, sugar, and salt, set aside.
- Warm the water to 110°F in the microwave or in a small saucepan. Pour half of the water into the bowl with the yeast, stir gently, let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. This step is important for activating the yeast, ensuring your dough will rise beautifully.
- Pour the remaining water into the bowl with the butter. Let it sit while the yeast is sitting.
- After 5 minutes, whisk the butter mixture until combined, the butter may not fully melt, that’s okay.
- Add the egg yolk and yeast mixture to the wet ingredients, whisk to combine.
- Add the flour and stir it all together until just combined. I like to use a wooden spoon for this, mixing just until no dry streaks of flour remain to avoid overworking the dough.
- From the assembly ingredients, add 2 tablespoons of the melted butter to a 9×13 baking dish and brush it all over the dish. Make sure every corner and side of the dish is coated, this helps achieve that crispy crust.
- Spread the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes. When spreading the dough, I press gently and evenly to avoid tearing it and ensure a consistent thickness for even baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350F. Take off the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Pour the rest of the melted butter on top and brush it all over the dough so it is covered. Don’t skip brushing the butter all over; this is key for a rich flavor and a lovely golden-brown finish.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella all over the top, followed by the parmesan, garlic salt, and dried oregano. I make sure to get the cheese all the way to the edges, as that’s where the best crispy, cheesy bits are!
- Bake for 28-31 minutes until the edges all around the baking dish are dark golden brown and the cheese on top is bubbly and browned. I always keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect deep golden crust without burning.
- Take the pan out of the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Take the breadsticks out of the pan and cut into 8 even slices. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping. Allowing it to cool briefly helps the cheese set, making for cleaner cuts and easier removal from the pan.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Printable Recipe Card
Want just the essential recipe details without scrolling through the article? Get our printable recipe card with just the ingredients and instructions.
