Irresistible Copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread: Your Ultimate Homemade Guide

Craving that iconic cheesy, garlicky goodness of Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread? Look no further! This ultimate copycat recipe brings the magic of those beloved bread sticks right into your kitchen. Say goodbye to waiting in line and hello to warm, gooey, homemade crazy bread that’s even better than the original.

Our meticulously crafted recipe guides you through every step, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of crispy crust, fluffy interior, and a generous blanket of melted cheese, all infused with fragrant garlic butter. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Little Caesars or simply a lover of all things cheesy and bready, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. It’s surprisingly simple to make, using readily available ingredients, and promises to deliver an authentic taste experience that will have everyone reaching for more.

I genuinely believe that Little Caesars’ Italian Cheese Bread is a standout item on their menu. Its addictive combination of savory garlic, rich cheese, and tender bread is simply unparalleled. If you haven’t yet, you absolutely *must* try dipping these warm, cheesy bread sticks into their spicy jalapeno cheese dip. Oh my goodness, it takes the experience to an entirely new level of deliciousness!

This recipe aims to replicate that exact flavor and texture profile, allowing you to enjoy fresh, hot cheese bread whenever the craving strikes, without ever leaving your home. It’s perfect for pizza night, a quick snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Homemade Italian Cheese Bread Recipe

There are countless reasons why this copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread recipe stands out and is an absolute must-try for any bread and cheese enthusiast. Here’s what makes it truly special:

• Unbeatable Homemade Freshness: Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as these golden-brown cheese bread sticks bake. There’s nothing quite like the taste and warmth of freshly baked bread. You get to enjoy your favorite pizza bread straight from the oven, offering an experience far superior to any takeout.
• Budget-Friendly Indulgence: Making your own Italian cheese bread at home is significantly cheaper than buying it from a restaurant. You get to control the portion sizes and ingredients, making it a more economical choice for families or anyone looking to save a few dollars without compromising on taste or quality.
• Wholesome, Real Ingredients: By preparing this recipe yourself, you have complete control over every ingredient. This means you can ensure you’re using high-quality cheese, fresh garlic, and avoiding any unwanted additives like MSG. It’s real food, made with love, for a healthier and more transparent snack option.
• A True Little Caesars Experience: If you’re a devoted fan of Little Caesars Pizza, then you already know the irresistible appeal of their cheese sticks. This recipe perfectly captures that authentic flavor and texture, delivering the best cheese sticks experience you can get outside of the restaurant itself. It’s the perfect companion to your homemade pizza night.
• Kid-Approved Delight: This easy snack is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of soft bread, melty cheese, and crispy edges is simply irresistible, making it an excellent choice for after-school snacks, parties, or family movie nights.
• Everyone Loves Cheesy Garlic Bread: Let’s be honest, cheesy garlic bread is a universal comfort food. It’s a classic for a reason – delicious, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether served as a side dish, an appetizer, or a stand-alone snack, it’s bound to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s certainly my favorite food for a reason!

Essential Groceries: The Ingredients for Perfect Italian Cheese Bread

Crafting these amazing copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread sticks requires a few simple, yet crucial, ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the desired texture, flavor, and overall deliciousness. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Active Dry Yeast: This is the leavening agent that gives our bread its wonderful airy and chewy texture. Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise. One standard packet (2-¼ teaspoons) is typically sufficient.
• Granulated Sugar: A small amount of sugar acts as food for the yeast, helping it activate and bloom, contributing to the dough’s fermentation and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
• Warm Water: Crucial for activating the yeast. The water should be warm to the touch (between 105-115°F or 40-46°C) – too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won’t activate it.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and flavor to the dough, contributing to its tender crumb and preventing it from being too dry. It also helps with browning.
• Salt: Essential for flavor development in the dough and also helps to control the yeast activity. Don’t skip it!
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our bread. All-purpose flour provides the right amount of gluten for a pliable and delicious dough.
• Mozzarella Cheese (freshly grated recommended): The star of the show! Mozzarella provides that classic stringy, gooey melt. Freshly grating a block of whole milk mozzarella will give you the best melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated recommended): Adds a sharp, salty, and umami depth that complements the mozzarella beautifully. Again, fresh Parmesan cheese grated from a block offers superior flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that infuses the cheese bread with authentic Italian-inspired aromatics.
• Salted Butter: The base for our irresistible garlic butter. Using salted butter enhances the overall flavor; if using unsalted, you might want to add a tiny pinch more salt to the garlic mixture.
• Garlic Cloves (minced): Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for that punchy, aromatic garlic flavor that defines these bread sticks. Avoid garlic powder for the butter if you can, as fresh garlic makes a significant difference.

For precise measurements and detailed quantities, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.

Recipe Walkthrough: Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Italian Cheese Bread

Crafting these delicious Italian cheese bread sticks is a straightforward process, even for novice bakers. This section provides a detailed overview of each step, ensuring you achieve perfect results every time. For the most granular instructions, including exact timings and ingredient notes, refer to the full recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Step 1: Activate the Yeast. Begin by adding the warm water (ensure it’s between 105-115°F or 40-46°C, test with a thermometer for accuracy), granulated sugar, and active dry yeast into the bowl of your stand mixer. Give it a gentle stir. Allow this mixture to sit undisturbed for about 5-10 minutes. During this time, the yeast should “bloom,” meaning it will become visibly frothy and bubbly on the surface. This frothing indicates that your yeast is alive and active, ready to make your dough rise beautifully.
• Step 2: Form the Dough. Once your yeast is active, add the olive oil, salt, and all-purpose flour to the stand mixer bowl. Attach the dough hook and begin mixing on low speed. The dough will start to come together, initially looking shaggy, then gradually forming a cohesive, slightly sticky ball. Continue mixing for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should still be somewhat tacky to the touch, but not excessively sticky.
• Step 3: First Rise (Proofing). Lightly grease the mixing bowl with a little olive oil, then turn the dough over once to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Place the covered bowl in a warm, draft-free area of your kitchen. Allow the dough to rise for approximately 30-60 minutes, or until it has visibly doubled in size. This proofing stage develops the flavor and texture of the bread.
• Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter. While your dough is undergoing its first rise, prepare the flavorful garlic butter topping. Melt the salted butter in a small mixing bowl. To the melted butter, add your freshly minced garlic cloves. Stir well to combine. Set this aromatic mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld, and it will be ready to brush onto the bread.
• Step 5: Create the Cheese Blend. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Toss everything together thoroughly until the cheeses and herbs are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite of your cheese bread is packed with flavor.
• Step 6: Prepare the Baking Sheet. Line a standard 9×13-inch cookie sheet or baking pan with aluminum foil. This step makes for easier cleanup and helps in achieving a crisp bottom crust. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent the dough from sticking.
• Step 7: Spread the Dough. Once your dough has successfully doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough directly onto the prepared foil-lined baking sheet. Since the dough can be a bit sticky, lightly spray your fingertips with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Using your greased fingers, gently but firmly spread the dough evenly across the entire surface of the baking sheet, stretching it to reach all the corners. After spreading, let the dough rest and rise again on the sheet for about 15 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to work with.
• Step 8: Preheat Oven and First Garlic Butter Application. During the second rise, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has rested, take a pastry brush and lightly brush the surface of the risen dough with a portion of your prepared garlic butter. This initial application helps infuse flavor and promotes a beautiful golden crust.
• Step 9: Add Cheese and Bake. Generously sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly all over the buttered dough, ensuring full coverage. Place the baking sheet with the cheese bread into the preheated oven, ideally on the middle rack. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling, melted, and the crust has turned a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
• Step 10: Final Garlic Butter Brush and Cut. Carefully remove the hot cheese bread from the oven. Immediately brush the remaining garlic butter over the entire surface of the baked bread. This not only adds more flavor but also gives it that glossy, appealing finish. Transfer the bread to a cutting board. Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, slice it into bread stick-sized shapes. Typically, this means cutting it in half lengthwise, then into several strips widthwise, yielding about 24 delicious bread sticks. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tip: If your yeast mixture does not become frothy and bubbly after 5-10 minutes in Step 1, it means your yeast is likely inactive or “dead.” You’ll need to discard that batch and start over with fresh yeast to ensure proper dough rise. Always check the expiration date on your yeast package!

Exciting Recipe Variations and Smart Substitute Ideas

While this copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread recipe is phenomenal as written, don’t hesitate to get creative and customize it to your personal preferences. Here are several variations and substitute ideas to inspire you:

• Enhanced Garlic Flavor: For an even more robust garlic punch, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder directly to the dough mixture along with the flour and salt. This will infuse garlic flavor throughout the bread itself, complementing the garlic butter topping.
• Time-Saving Pre-made Pizza Dough: If you’re short on time or prefer to skip the dough-making process, a store-bought pre-made pizza dough works wonderfully. Simply unroll it onto your prepared baking sheet, spread it out, and proceed with Step 8 of the recipe. Just ensure it’s at room temperature for easier handling.
• Cheese Convenience vs. Quality: While freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan offer the best melt and flavor, you can certainly use pre-shredded cheese from a package for convenience. Be aware that pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents, which can sometimes result in a less gooey, slightly drier melt.
• Explore Different Cheeses: The cheese possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses. Consider adding provolone for a sharper Italian flavor, Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, or a blend of Colby and Jack for a milder, buttery taste. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese could also add an interesting tang.
• Personalized Italian Spice Blends: If you have a favorite blend of Italian spices, or prefer specific herbs, feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning to your liking. Adding a pinch of dried oregano, basil, or even a touch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick can customize the flavor profile.
• Add Pepperoni for a “Pizza” Bread: Transform your cheese bread into a pepperoni cheese bread! After sprinkling the cheese mixture, arrange small pepperoni slices evenly over the top before baking. The pepperoni will crisp up deliciously and add a savory, spicy element.
• Whole Wheat Flour Option: For a slightly healthier twist, you could substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will result in a denser dough with a nuttier flavor and increased fiber content. You might need a tiny bit more liquid as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.
• Herbaceous Additions: Before baking, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or basil over the cheese for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Spice it Up: A dash of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter or sprinkled over the cheese can add a pleasant warmth and kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

These variations allow you to tailor the Italian cheese bread to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, making this recipe incredibly adaptable and endlessly enjoyable.

Sharing is Caring – Connect with Us!

If you love this recipe, please consider sharing it with your friends and family! You can also connect with us on our social media channels for more delicious recipes and cooking tips. Follow The Cagle Diaries on Facebook to stay updated!

Necessary Gear: Essential Equipment for Easy Baking

The following are affiliate links. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Rest assured, we only recommend products we genuinely use and love in our own kitchen.

While this recipe is achievable with basic kitchen tools, having the right equipment can make the process even smoother and more enjoyable. As someone who doesn’t frequently make bread dough by hand, I can confidently say that my stand mixer is an absolute lifesaver for this recipe. It takes all the hard work out of kneading, ensuring a perfectly developed dough with minimal effort.

Beyond the stand mixer, here are a few other pieces of gear that will prove invaluable:

• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Attachment: This is highly recommended for effortlessly mixing and kneading the dough to the perfect consistency. It saves significant time and effort. Check out our recommended stand mixer here.
• Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two – one for proofing the dough and another for combining the cheese mixture. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best. Find a great set of mixing bowls here.
• 9×13-inch Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet is essential for baking the bread evenly. Non-stick options are a bonus for easy release. Shop for reliable non-stick baking sheets.
• Pastry Brush: Ideal for evenly applying the garlic butter to the dough before and after baking, ensuring every inch is coated in flavor.
• Pizza Cutter or Sharp Knife: For quickly and neatly slicing the baked cheese bread into individual sticks.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking, especially when working with yeast.
• Aluminum Foil: For lining the baking sheet, simplifying cleanup.

Having these tools on hand will set you up for success and make the entire baking process a breeze!

More Irresistible Bread Recipes You’ll Love

If you’ve enjoyed making this Copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread, you’re likely a connoisseur of delicious, comforting bread recipes. Here are some other fantastic bread creations from our kitchen that we think you’ll absolutely adore. They range from savory to sweet, perfect for any meal or occasion.

• Italian Monkey Bread
• Cajun Cornbread Recipe
• Stuffed Garlic Bread
• Crawfish Bread
• Pull Apart Bread Wreath
• Classic Italian Cheese Bread (Non-Copycat)
• Southern Spoon Bread

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Italian Cheese Bread

It’s rare to have leftovers of something so delicious, but should you find yourself with extra Italian Cheese Bread, proper storage and reheating techniques will ensure it remains as enjoyable as possible.

Storage: Once you’ve allowed the Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread to cool completely to room temperature, transfer the bread sticks to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Stored correctly, they will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cooling completely before storing is crucial to prevent condensation and sogginess.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked and cooled bread sticks. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Mel’s Kitchen Notes: Reheating for Optimal Enjoyment

For the absolute best results when reheating your leftover Italian Cheese Bread, I highly recommend using an air fryer if you have one. The air fryer circulates hot air, which helps to crisp up the crust and melt the cheese beautifully without drying out the bread. If an air fryer isn’t available, your oven is the next best option. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. Whatever you do, avoid the microwave! While convenient, microwaving will heat the bread unevenly and inevitably make it soggy, losing that delightful texture we all love.

We hope you thoroughly enjoyed making and savoring this incredible Copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread Recipe! Your feedback is invaluable to us.

If you’ve tried this recipe or any other fantastic recipe on our site, please let us know how it turned out in the comment section below. We love hearing from our readers about your kitchen adventures and any tips or tweaks you discovered!

If you truly loved this recipe and it became a new favorite, please consider giving it a 5-star rating! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Your ratings and reviews help other home cooks find and enjoy these recipes too.

You can also follow us on PINTEREST, FACEBOOK, and INSTAGRAM to discover more amazing recipes, cooking inspiration, and behind-the-scenes glimpses from our kitchen!