These crispy, golden Garlic Cheese Fingers are soft on the inside, loaded with gooey mozzarella, brushed with garlic butter, and baked until perfectly cheesy. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish served with your favorite dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Servings: 12 cheese fingers

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Ingredients

Dough

• 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup (180ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cheese Filling

• 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Garlic Butter

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Extra Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil.
3. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

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Step 2: Shape the Cheese Fingers

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 10 x 14 inches.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning evenly over one half of the dough.
4. Fold the other half over the cheese and press the edges to seal.
5. Cut into 12 strips and gently twist each strip if desired.

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Step 3: Bake

1. Arrange the strips on a parchment-lined baking tray.
2. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.

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Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

While the cheese fingers are baking, combine:

• Melted butter
• Garlic
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Parsley
• Parmesan cheese

Brush generously over the hot cheese fingers as soon as they come out of the oven.

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Step 5: Serve

Serve warm with:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Cheese sauce

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Nutritional Information (Per Cheese Finger)

Nutrition values are approximate.

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Tips for Success

• Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and stretch.
• Seal the dough edges tightly to keep the cheese inside.
• Brush with garlic butter immediately after baking for maximum flavor.
• Bake on the center oven rack for even browning.
• Serve while hot for the ultimate cheesy pull.

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Variations

Cheddar Garlic Fingers

Replace half the mozzarella with sharp cheddar.

Three-Cheese Version

Use mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan.

Spicy Cheese Fingers

Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Herb & Garlic

Mix chopped basil, oregano, and thyme into the cheese filling.

Pepperoni Cheese Fingers

Layer thin slices of pepperoni with the cheese before folding the dough.

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Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
• Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
• Microwave: 20–30 seconds (the crust will be softer).

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Nut Information

Contains Peanuts? ❌ No

Contains Tree Nuts? ❌ No

Nut-Free Recipe: ✅ Yes

Allergy Note: This recipe is naturally nut-free. Check packaged ingredients such as cheese, yeast, and flour for allergen statements and possible cross-contamination if serving someone with severe nut allergies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes. Refrigerated or homemade pizza dough works perfectly and saves time.

2. Which cheese melts the best?

Low-moisture mozzarella provides the best stretch, while adding provolone or Monterey Jack creates extra creaminess.

3. Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Yes. Shape the cheese fingers, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake just before serving.

4. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, depending on thickness.

5. Can I add meat?

Absolutely. Pepperoni, cooked bacon, or shredded chicken are delicious additions.

6. How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Seal the edges firmly, avoid overfilling, and bake on parchment paper to catch any small leaks.

7. What dipping sauces go well with garlic cheese fingers?

Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, Alfredo sauce, spicy mayo, pesto, or cheese sauce are all excellent choices.