When the craving for comfort food strikes, nothing hits the spot quite like warm, cheesy goodness. I’ll never forget the delight of pulling apart a golden-brown cheese stick, with stretchy mozzarella oozing from the center and that perfect dip into marinara sauce waiting to embrace every bite. This Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks recipe brings those fond memories back while sparing you the drive and the wait.
With a soft, pillowy dough enveloping a luscious layer of cheese, these sticks are surprisingly easy to make—perfect for a cozy night in or a fun gathering with friends. The fragrant aroma of baking butter and garlic will have your kitchen feeling like a pizzeria in no time. So dust off your rolling pin and gather the ingredients; it’s time to whip up a batch of these irresistible delights!
Why You'll Love This Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
- These Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are incredibly easy to make, making them the perfect addition to your weeknight dinner routine or party spread.
- Packed with melty mozzarella and irresistible buttery flavor, they’re guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Their versatility allows you to enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
- Plus, the visual appeal of these golden-brown sticks, perfectly garnished with parmesan and herbs, will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- Enjoy the delicious, nostalgic taste of a favorite restaurant treat right from your own kitchen without the hassle.
Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Ingredients
For the Dough
- Active dry yeast – This is crucial for making the dough rise and achieve that perfect texture.
- Unsalted butter – Make sure it’s thinly sliced for even melting throughout the dough.
- Granulated sugar – It adds a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory flavors.
- Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of your dough.
- Warm water – The ideal temperature (110°F) helps activate the yeast effectively.
- Egg yolk – Adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
- All-purpose flour – A versatile flour that gives the perfect structure to the cheese sticks.
For the Filling and Topping
- Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds a luxurious, buttery flavor; brush generously on top for a golden finish.
- Shredded mozzarella – The star ingredient that makes this a Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks recipe; use fresh mozzarella for extra stretch!
- Grated parmesan cheese – Adds a savory twist and enhances the cheesy goodness.
- Garlic salt – Infuses the sticks with delightful garlic flavor, making them irresistible.
- Dried oregano – Offers a hint of herbal freshness that complements the cheese.
For Serving
- Marinara sauce – A classic dip that enhances the cheesy, buttery goodness of these sticks.
How to Make Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
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Dissolve yeast: In a small bowl, combine the yeast with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Let it sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes. This step activates the yeast for a perfect rise!
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Mix ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the remaining warm water, sugar, salt, butter slices, egg yolk, and flour. Stir until a dough forms, bringing everything together harmoniously.
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Knead dough: Flour your work surface and knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You want it to be soft and slightly tacky—it’s all about that perfect texture!
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Let it rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise for 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size. This gives the dough time to breathe and fluff up beautifully.
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Preheat oven: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. The exciting aroma of baking is just around the corner!
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Roll out the dough: Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. Brush the surface generously with half of the melted butter, making it rich and inviting.
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Fill with cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the dough. Fold it over to enclose the cheese and gently press the edges to seal everything in. You want to create those cheesy pockets!
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Cut into sticks: Use a knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into sticks. Arrange them neatly on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining melted butter and sprinkle with parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano for that final touch.
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Bake to perfection: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese is wonderfully melted. Keep an eye out for that perfect golden hue!
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Serve warm: Enjoy your cheesy breadsticks fresh from the oven, served warm with marinara sauce for dipping. Every bite is going to be a delicious moment!
Optional: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?
These cheesy delights deserve a spot on your dining table, making meal time a joyful experience filled with flavor and warmth.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the cheese sticks. Toss with a zesty vinaigrette for added flair.
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Garlic Butter Pasta: Indulge in the decadent flavor of garlic butter pasta; its buttery essence pairs beautifully with the savory cheese.
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Spicy Italian Sausage: Char-grilled or pan-fried, spicy Italian sausage brings a kick and hearty protein, complementing the cheesy goodness perfectly.
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Vegetable Antipasto Platter: A colorful mix of marinated vegetables balances the richness of the cheese sticks, inviting everyone to nibble.
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Brewed Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, cleanses the palate and makes a delightful sip alongside these sticks.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm chocolate lava cake; the rich chocolate contrasts deliciously with cheesy, savory bites.
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Herbed Flatbread: Light, fluffy flatbread sprinkled with fresh herbs offers a warm, aromatic addition to your meal, perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Bright, bubbly lemonade provides a zesty refreshment that cuts through the richness of cheese sticks, making it a delightful drink choice.
How to Store and Freeze Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
Room Temperature: Allow the cheese sticks to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can last up to 2 days at room temperature.
Fridge: Store leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results to maintain their crispy texture.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the cheese sticks individually on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen cheese sticks, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot and crispy, giving you that fresh-from-the-oven taste!
Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Variations
Feel free to get creative with your cheese sticks by trying out these delicious twists that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the dough for an aromatic flavor boost. The fresh herbs will lend a delightful fragrance as they bake.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your cheese sticks a fiery twist. The heat complements the melty cheese beautifully!
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Cheesy Blend: Use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. This blend enhances both taste and texture in every bite.
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Whole Wheat: Swap out half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier, nuttier flavor. It’s a healthier twist that doesn’t compromise on deliciousness.
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Garlic Butter: Instead of just plain melted butter, infuse it with minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor. This will result in a gloriously aromatic finish!
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Stuffed Sticks: Before folding the dough, add a layer of cooked spinach and ricotta or pepperoni for stuffed cheese sticks that pack a flavor punch! Get creative with the fillings.
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Parmesan Crust: After brushing with butter, generously sprinkle grated parmesan on top for an irresistibly crispy, cheesy crust that bakes to perfection.
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Sweet and Savory: Drizzle with honey after baking for a sweet contrast to the savory cheese sticks. This unexpected twist will surely delight your guests!
Make Ahead Options
These Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their cheesy goodness without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until the dough rises, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling and filling. Additionally, you can slice the sticks after assembly and freeze them for up to 3 months; just bake them straight from the freezer for an easy snack. This means you can have fresh, melty cheese sticks ready to go whenever the craving strikes—delicious and convenient!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks, ensure your yeast is activated properly by using warm water at 110°F and letting it foam for 5-10 minutes.
- Avoid over-kneading the dough; aim for a smooth and elastic texture in about 5-7 minutes to prevent tough cheese sticks.
- For optimal cheesy goodness, use freshly shredded mozzarella as it melts better and creates those perfect cheese pulls.
- Bake the sticks at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, but keep an eye on them to ensure they turn a lovely golden brown without burning.
Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe FAQs
What type of mozzarella should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best gooey, stretchy experience, I recommend using freshly shredded whole milk mozzarella. Pre-packaged shredded mozzarella often contains anti-caking agents that can affect its melting properties.
How should I store leftover cheese sticks?
To keep those delicious Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks fresh, allow them to cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. For a quick reheating, pop them back in the oven to regain that crispy texture!
Can I freeze the cheese sticks for later enjoyment?
Very! To freeze, first place the prepared cheese sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. This way, you can always have a cheesy treat ready to go!
What should I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, the yeast may not have been activated properly. Check the water temperature; it should be around 110°F. If the yeast doesn’t bubble after 5–10 minutes, it might be too old or inactive. Always use fresh yeast for the best results!
Are these cheese sticks suitable for those with gluten allergies?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can easily adjust it for gluten-free diets! Substituting with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well. Just note that the texture may vary slightly, so be sure to follow additional guidelines on your flour package for baking best practices.
How can I make the dough rise faster?
If you’re in a bit of a hurry, try placing the covered dough in a warm spot, like an oven preheated to 200°F and then turned off, or on a sunny windowsill. This can help accelerate the rising process. Just be cautious not to let it get too hot, as that could kill the yeast!
Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
Ingredients
- 1 packet Active dry yeast Crucial for making the dough rise.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter Thinly sliced for even melting.
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar Adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Essential for flavor.
- 110 degrees Fahrenheit Warm water Ideal for activating yeast.
- 1 large Egg yolk Adds richness to the dough.
- 2 cups All-purpose flour Versatile for structure.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted) For brushing on top.
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella Use fresh for extra stretch.
- 1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese Enhances cheesy goodness.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic salt Infuses delightful flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Adds herbal freshness.
- 1 cup Marinara sauce Classic dip for the sticks.
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Let it sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the remaining warm water, sugar, salt, butter slices, egg yolk, and flour. Stir until a dough forms.
- Flour your work surface and knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise for 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once risen, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. Brush with half of the melted butter.
- Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the dough. Fold it over to enclose the cheese and press the edges to seal.
- Slice the dough into sticks and arrange on the baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining melted butter, and sprinkle with parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
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