Irresistible Optimized Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Recreate Pizza Hut’s famous cheese sticks at home with a tender, cheesy dough that bakes golden in about an hour. Perfect for game nights or cozy evenings, this Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe delivers gooey mozzarella, garlicky butter, and a crisp exterior quick enough for a last-minute snack. Try it alongside other crowd-pleasers like holiday baking favorites for a full spread.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced dough: a soft, slightly chewy crust that holds gooey cheese without leaking.
• Flavor boost: melted butter plus parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano mimic the classic restaurant finish.
• Simple assembly: roll, fill, fold, and bake no deep fryer needed.

Ingredients

Dough:

• Active dry yeast: 1 teaspoon
• Unsalted butter (thinly sliced): 2 tablespoons
• Granulated sugar: 1 1/2 tablespoons
• Kosher salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Warm water (110°F, divided): 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons
• Egg yolk (lightly beaten): 1
• All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons

Assembly:

• Unsalted butter (melted, divided): 1/2 cup
• Shredded mozzarella: 8 ounces
• Grated parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons
• Garlic salt: 1/4 teaspoon
• Dried oregano: 1/4 teaspoon
• Marinara sauce: for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in 2 tablespoons warm water. Let sit until foamy, about 5–10 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with remaining warm water, sugar, salt, sliced butter, egg yolk, and flour. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–2 hours or until doubled.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll dough into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle. Brush with half the melted butter.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over dough, fold to enclose the cheese, and press edges lightly to seal.
6. Cut into sticks and place on the prepared sheet. Brush tops with remaining butter and sprinkle with parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano.
7. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and cheese is melted. Serve warm with marinara for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• Tip: For even melting, use finely shredded mozzarella and press gently to remove air pockets before folding.
• Tip: If short on time, let the dough rise in a warm oven (turned off) for 45–60 minutes.
• Variation: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh basil before baking for a flavor twist. Find more cheesy snack inspiration at crispy fried cheese ideas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cheese sticks hot with warm marinara, a side salad, or as part of a party platter alongside fresh veggies and olives.

FAQ

Conclusion

For the original inspiration and measurements behind this Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe, see the full reference recipe here: Copycat Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe.

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