Crack Sticks have earned their name for a reason—they’re utterly addictive! These cheesy, crispy breadsticks are packed with flavor and perfect for snacking, parties, or pairing with your favorite dips. Once you try them, it’s hard to stop at just one.
Originating from simple ingredients like crescent roll dough, cheese, and garlic, Crack Sticks come together quickly and deliver a satisfying crunch with every bite. We love how easy they are to make, requiring just a few steps to create a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
To make the irresistible Crack Sticks, we need a few simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of cheesy, garlicky, and crispy goodness.
Dough Ingredients
We start with the foundation—the dough. Using store-bought crescent roll dough keeps the recipe quick and foolproof.
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough, preferably classic or flaky style
Filling Ingredients
The filling delivers the mouthwatering flavor and texture that make these sticks addictive.
- 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh for bold aroma
- 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
Optional Toppings and Dips
Enhance the Crack Sticks experience with these customizable options that add extra zest or complement the snack perfectly.
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (sprinkled on top)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (for extra cheesiness)
- Your favorite dipping sauces such as:
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy sriracha mayo
| Ingredient Category | Ingredients & Notes |
|---|---|
| Dough | 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough |
| Filling | 8 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 4 oz cream cheese (softened), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp dried parsley flakes |
| Optional Toppings/Dips | 1 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp grated Parmesan, marinara, ranch, sriracha mayo |
By gathering these fresh and flavorful ingredients, we set ourselves up for the ultimate Crack Sticks Recipe that’s sure to delight every cheese lover.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Crack Sticks, having the right equipment on hand is essential. We recommend gathering these tools before starting to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking experience.
- Baking Sheet: A standard 9×13-inch baking sheet works best for arranging the sticks without overcrowding, allowing even baking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: These prevent sticking and make cleanup easier while preserving the crisp texture of the Crack Sticks.
- Mixing Bowl: Use a medium bowl to combine the cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, minced garlic, and dried parsley evenly.
- Measuring Spoons: Precise measurement of garlic, parsley, and optional seasonings ensures the ideal balance of flavors.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For slicing the crescent roll dough into strips cleanly and uniformly.
- Pastry Brush: Essential for brushing melted butter over the sticks for extra golden crispiness and flavor enhancement.
- Spatula or Dough Scraper: To help lift and arrange the sticks gently onto the baking sheet without deforming.
- Cooling Rack: Enables air circulation underneath the sticks, keeping them crisp after baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking Sheet | Even baking of sticks |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Non-stick surface and easy cleanup |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine cheese and garlic filling |
| Measuring Spoons | Accurate seasoning measurement |
| Sharp Knife/Pizza Cutter | Cut dough into uniform strips |
| Pastry Brush | Apply melted butter evenly |
| Spatula/Dough Scraper | Handle dough strips gently |
| Cooling Rack | Maintain crisp texture after baking |
By prepping these tools, we set the stage to make our Crack Sticks recipe an effortless and enjoyable cooking adventure.
Prep Work
Before we start assembling our Crack Sticks, it’s essential to prepare the dough and filling properly. This foundation ensures every stick is perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor.
Preparing the Dough
- Chill the Crescent Roll Dough – Keep the store-bought crescent roll dough refrigerated until ready. Cold dough is easier to handle and cuts more cleanly.
- Unroll and Flatten – Gently unroll the dough on a clean surface lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Seal perforations – Press the perforated edges firmly to seal and create an even sheet that won’t separate during rolling.
- Cut into strips – Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into uniform strips about 1 inch wide. This size balances thickness and crispiness for perfect Crack Sticks.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Chill dough | Keep refrigerated until use |
| Unroll dough | On parchment or silicone mat |
| Seal perforations | Press firmly to avoid separation |
| Cut into strips | 1 inch wide, sharp knife or pizza cutter |
Preparing the Filling
- Mix the cheeses – In a mixing bowl, combine sharp cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Both cheeses contribute creaminess and that signature sharp cheesy flavor.
- Add garlic and herbs – Incorporate minced garlic and dried parsley flakes for savory depth and a touch of green freshness.
- Blend thoroughly – Use a spatula to mix until smooth and fully combined, ensuring every bite of Crack Sticks has a consistent cheesy garlic kick.
- Optional seasoning – For extra flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of cracked black pepper if desired.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 1 cup shredded | Cheesy sharpness |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz softened | Creamy texture |
| Minced garlic | 2 cloves | Savory depth |
| Dried parsley flakes | 1 tsp | Fresh herbal note |
| Garlic powder (optional) | ½ tsp | Extra garlic flavor (optional) |
| Black pepper (optional) | To taste | Mild heat (optional) |
By following these prep steps precisely, we set ourselves up for the addictive, crispy Crack Sticks that everyone will want to devour.
Instructions
Follow these clear step-by-step instructions to assemble and bake our irresistible Crack Sticks. Precision in each step ensures perfectly crispy, cheesy bites every time.
Assembling the Crack Sticks
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when the sticks are prepared.
- On a lined baking sheet (parchment paper or silicone mat), lay out the crescent roll dough strips, making sure they have sealed perforations to prevent filling leakage.
- Using a small spoon or spatula, spread the prepared cheese and garlic filling evenly along the entire length of each dough strip, leaving about ½ inch at the edges free for sealing.
- Starting from one edge, roll each dough strip tightly over the filling, creating a long stick shape. Pinch the edges firmly to seal and prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
- Place the assembled sticks on the baking sheet with enough space (about 1 inch apart) to allow even crisping and expansion.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Using a pastry brush, generously brush this mixture over each stick to enhance flavor and browning.
Baking the Crack Sticks
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven on the middle rack to ensure even heat distribution.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the sticks are golden brown and crisp. The cheese inside should be melted and bubbly, creating that signature addictive texture.
- Once baked, remove the sticks promptly and transfer them onto a cooling rack to maintain maximum crispness and prevent sogginess from steam.
- Serve warm with your choice of dips such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy sriracha mayo for a bold finish that complements the savory flavors.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 375°F (190°C) | — | Use middle rack for even cooking |
| Bake Crack Sticks | 375°F (190°C) | 12-15 minutes | Look for golden brown and bubbly cheese |
| Cooling | Room temp | 5 minutes | Use cooling rack to keep crisp |
Serving Suggestions
Crack Sticks come alive with the perfect accompaniments that elevate the cheesy, garlic goodness and crispy texture. Here are our top serving suggestions to make every bite a memorable experience.
Pair With Dipping Sauces
Dip the warm, golden Crack Sticks into flavorful sauces for a taste explosion. Here are our favorites to serve alongside:
| Sauce | Flavor Profile | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marinara Sauce | Tangy and slightly sweet | Complements the cheesy filling |
| Ranch Dressing | Creamy and herbaceous | Balances garlic and sharp cheese |
| Spicy Sriracha Mayo | Spicy with a creamy kick | Adds heat for adventurous eaters |
| Garlic Butter Dip | Rich and buttery | Enhances the garlic flavor |
Tip: Warm your dips slightly before serving to keep the experience cohesive.
Complement with Sides
Adding fresh or crunchy sides rounds out the snack nicely for sharing or fuller meals.
- Fresh Garden Salad: The crisp veggies and light vinaigrette cut through the richness.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tang and acidity refresh the palate.
- Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based slaws provide a pleasing contrast.
Presentation Ideas
Making Crack Sticks appealing to the eye adds excitement before the first bite:
- Arrange sticks in a circular pattern on a rustic wooden board.
- Place small bowls of each dip evenly spaced to invite easy sharing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or a light sprinkle of extra Parmesan for color.
Serving Temperature
Serve the Crack Sticks warm or at room temperature to ensure:
- The cheese inside remains melty and gooey.
- The outside stays crisp and inviting.
Resting 5 minutes post-baking on a cooling rack is ideal.
Ideal Occasion
These snack sticks shine at:
- Parties and gatherings for crowd-pleasing finger foods
- Game nights paired with chilled beverages
- Casual family dinners as a starter or side
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To enjoy our Crack Sticks at their freshest, proper storage is key. After baking, allow the sticks to cool completely on a wire rack to preserve their crispiness. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Stored this way, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
For longer storage, we recommend refrigerating the sticks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap then transfer to an airtight container. They will stay good for up to 5 days in the fridge. When ready to eat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes to restore their crispy texture and melty cheese interior.
If you want to make Crack Sticks ahead of time, this recipe is very accommodating:
| Make-Ahead Stage | Storage Method | Shelf Life | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before Baking (assembled) | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap | Up to 24 hours in fridge | Bake fresh at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 min |
| Fully Baked | Airtight container | 3 days room temp / 5 days fridge | Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 min |
| Freeze (baked or assembled) | Freeze in freezer-safe bags | Up to 1 month | Thaw overnight in fridge, then bake or reheat |
Pro Tip: If freezing before baking, bake the sticks directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time for best results.
Conclusion
Crack Sticks are a simple yet irresistible snack that brings cheesy, garlicky goodness to any table. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, we can whip up a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties or casual bites. Their versatility with dips and sides makes them a go-to appetizer for all occasions.
By following the recipe and prepping carefully, we ensure every bite is crispy, flavorful, and satisfying. Plus, with smart storage and make-ahead tips, enjoying these addictive sticks anytime is a breeze. Let’s get baking and share this delicious snack with friends and family—they’ll keep coming back for more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crack Sticks?
Crack Sticks are a cheesy, crispy snack made with crescent roll dough, sharp cheddar, cream cheese, and garlic. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for parties or casual snacking.
What ingredients do I need to make Crack Sticks?
You’ll need crescent roll dough, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, dried parsley flakes, melted butter, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Optional dips include marinara, ranch, and spicy sriracha mayo.
How do I prepare the dough for Crack Sticks?
Keep crescent roll dough refrigerated until use. Unroll and flatten it on parchment paper, seal perforations, and cut into uniform strips before filling and rolling.
How long do I bake Crack Sticks?
Bake the assembled sticks at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Can I make Crack Sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can store assembled but unbaked sticks in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Baked sticks can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to a month.
How should I store leftover Crack Sticks?
Cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them.
What dips pair well with Crack Sticks?
Popular options include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, spicy sriracha mayo, and garlic butter dip. Warming the dips can enhance the flavor.
How do I keep Crack Sticks crispy after baking?
Cool the sticks on a wire rack to prevent sogginess and maintain crispness before serving or storing.
Can I customize the filling or toppings?
Yes, you can add extra seasonings like garlic powder, black pepper, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Are Crack Sticks suitable for parties?
Absolutely! They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and pair well with a variety of dips and sides, making them perfect for gatherings.