Soft, buttery breadsticks coated with garlic butter and parmesan, perfect for dipping into marinara sauce just like the ones from Little Caesar’s.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Copycat Little Caesar’s Crazy Bread sticks deliver that iconic soft, fluffy texture paired with rich garlic butter and a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, they’re a delicious and satisfying snack or appetizer that pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping. Easy to make at home, they’re a great way to recreate a restaurant favorite anytime.
Ingredients
For the Breadsticks:
1 1/2 cups warm water
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
For the Marinara Dipping Sauce:
1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Make the Dough
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until dough begins to form. Knead on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.
Prepare the Breadsticks
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long breadstick shape and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Prepare the Topping
Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in garlic powder and oregano until combined.
Finish the Breadsticks
Brush warm breadsticks immediately with garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top while still warm.
Serve
Serve breadsticks with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Servings and timing
Makes 12 breadsticks
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per breadstick
Variations
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for more intense flavor.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the breadsticks for color and freshness.
- Use mozzarella or asiago cheese in place of parmesan for a different cheese flavor.
- Make mini breadsticks for party appetizers or snacks.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh softness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, adjust rising time accordingly, usually shorter.
How do I keep breadsticks soft?
Store airtight and reheat gently to maintain softness.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze dough after kneading and thaw before rising.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
Serve with pizza sauce, garlic butter, or your favorite dip.
Can I make breadsticks gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend and adjust liquids as needed.
How do I prevent breadsticks from drying out?
Avoid overbaking and store in airtight containers.
Can I add herbs to the dough?
Yes, mix in dried Italian herbs for added flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double ingredients and rise dough in a larger bowl.
Are these breadsticks suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re soft and flavorful, perfect for all ages.
Can I make these without parmesan cheese?
Yes, omit cheese or use a cheese substitute.
Conclusion
Copycat Little Caesar’s Crazy Bread brings the soft, buttery, garlicky breadsticks you love right into your kitchen. With a simple recipe and minimal ingredients, these breadsticks make a perfect side or snack, especially when paired with marinara sauce. Impress friends and family with this homemade favorite!

Copycat Little Caesar’s Crazy Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, buttery breadsticks coated with garlic butter and parmesan, perfect for dipping into marinara sauce just like the ones from Little Caesar’s.
Ingredients
- For the Breadsticks:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- For the Marinara Dipping Sauce:
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil; stir to form dough.
- Knead on floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down dough, divide into 12 portions. Roll each into long breadsticks and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, melt butter with garlic powder and oregano.
- Brush warm breadsticks with garlic butter mixture and sprinkle parmesan cheese on top.
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure water is warm but not hot to activate yeast properly.
- Kneading well develops gluten for soft texture.
- Brush breadsticks immediately after baking for best absorption.
- Serve fresh and warm for optimal taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: Approx. 1 g
- Sodium: Approx. 220 mg
- Fat: Approx. 5 g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 22 g
- Fiber: Approx. 1 g
- Protein: Approx. 4 g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 15 mg
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *