Baking frozen cheese filled breadsticks is a great way to enjoy a tasty appetizer or side dish with minimal effort. However, it’s important to properly thaw and bake the breadsticks so that the dough is cooked through and the cheese filling is hot and melted. Here is a guide on how long to bake frozen cheese filled breadsticks to achieve the perfect texture and taste.
Thawing Frozen Cheese Breadsticks
The first step is thawing the frozen cheese filled breadsticks. There are a few different methods you can use:
- Refrigerator thawing: Place the frozen breadsticks in the refrigerator 8-12 hours before you want to bake them. This slowly thaws the breadsticks while keeping them chilled.
- Cold water thawing: Seal the breadsticks in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. This thaws them in 1-2 hours.
- Microwave thawing: Microwave the breadsticks on defrost setting based on package instructions, checking often. This takes around 5 minutes.
Proper thawing ensures the breadsticks thaw evenly throughout. Room temperature thawing is not recommended as the outside thaws faster than the inside.
Baking Thawed Frozen Cheese Breadsticks
Once the cheese filled breadsticks are thawed, preheat your oven to the temperature listed on the package, usually 350°F to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
The cooking time can vary based on:
- Size of the breadsticks
- Amount of filling
- Whether they are fully thawed
- Your oven’s hot spots
Refer to the package instructions for approximate baking time. Standard baking times are usually:
| Breadstick Size | Baking Time |
|---|---|
| Small (3 inches long) | 9-12 minutes |
| Medium (5 inches long) | 12-15 minutes |
| Large (7 inches long) | 15-18 minutes |
To ensure doneness, check breadsticks at the lowest baking time listed. They are fully cooked when:
- The dough is golden brown on the outside
- The center is hot and doughy, not raw
- The cheese filling is fully melted and hot
If needed, bake 2-3 minutes longer until the above signs of doneness are achieved. Rotate the pan halfway through for even cooking.
Tips for Baking Frozen Cheese Breadsticks
Follow these tips for perfect frozen cheese filled breadsticks every time:
- Thaw properly – Letting them thaw too quickly or unevenly can cause raw centers.
- Use parchment paper – This prevents sticking and allows bottom browning.
- Bake at the right temp – Higher heat crisps the outside before inside cooks.
- Don’t overcrowd – Leave 1-inch between breadsticks for airflow.
- Monitor closely – Check a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
Serving Baked Cheese Breadsticks
Once baked, remove the cheese breadsticks from the oven and let cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes. This helps set the dough and filling.
Serve the breadsticks right away for dipping in warm marinara sauce, cheese dips, or pesto. They also pair well with soups or salads.
If you won’t be eating them all right away, here are storage tips:
- Room temperature – 1-2 hours uncovered.
- Refrigerated – Store in sealed container up to 5 days.
- Frozen – Freeze in airtight bag up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating – Bake frozen breadsticks 15 minutes at 375°F. Microwave thawed breadsticks 20-30 seconds.
Making Homemade Cheese Breadsticks
While store-bought frozen options are convenient, you can also make easy homemade cheese breadsticks. Here is a recipe and instructions:
Ingredients
- 1 loaf frozen bread dough, thawed
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Thaw bread dough according to package directions. Press into a rectangle on floured surface.
- Sprinkle cheese down the center of the dough. Fold over dough crosswise to encase cheese.
- Cut dough into 3/4-1 inch wide strips using a pizza cutter or knife.
- Twist each strip 2-3 times and place on parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with melted butter.
- Bake at 375°F for 12-18 minutes until golden brown. Check often to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle with Italian seasoning if desired. Serve warm with marinara sauce.
This easy homemade version allows you to control the amount and type of cheese. Feel free to use your favorite melty cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend.
Common Questions About Baking Frozen Cheese Breadsticks
Why are my frozen cheese breadsticks raw in the middle?
If the breadsticks are still raw in the center after baking, the most likely culprit is insufficient thawing time. Make sure to thaw them thoroughly using one of the recommended methods before baking. Underbaking can also lead to raw centers, so check a few minutes earlier next time.
What if my cheese filling leaked out?
Sometimes the cheese filling may leak out during baking due to overthawing or the dough seam splitting open. Prevent this by thawing just until soft but still frozen in center and tightly pinching seams when twisting. If leakage does happen, the breadsticks will still taste great!
Can I refreeze thawed cheese breadsticks?
It is unsafe to refreeze cheese breadsticks after they have been thawed. Only refreeze them if they are still completely frozen and have not been sitting at room temperature at all. Otherwise, bake thawed breadsticks within 1-2 days and store properly.
Should I bake frozen cheese breadsticks from frozen or thawed?
It is best to always bake frozen cheese filled breadsticks after thawing first. Baking from completely frozen can lead to uncooked centers while the outside overbakes. Thawing helps them cook more evenly all the way through.
Conclusion
Baking frozen cheese filled breadsticks takes a little preparation but is worth it for the delicious, restaurant-quality results. Thaw them completely using the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave method. Bake at 350-375°F for 9-18 minutes based on size, checking frequently for doneness. Let cool briefly before serving with dips or soups. Store any leftovers properly and reheat later for easy entertaining. In just over 30 minutes total time, you can enjoy freshly baked cheese breadsticks at home.