Crispy Air Fryer Cheese Twists

I got an air fryer as a housewarming gift and spent weeks experimenting with everything from wings to vegetables. These pizza cheese bread twists happened during a Friday night movie marathon when I wanted something more exciting than frozen mozzarella sticks. Now they are the most requested snack whenever friends come over.

Last Super Bowl, I made three batches because they disappeared so fast. My brother admitted to eating six before anyone else even arrived. Now I double the recipe automatically.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: Skip the homemade dough hassle here since the can version yields tender twists that crisp up beautifully
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Use freshly shredded from a block instead of pre-shredded bags for better melting
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that salty umami punch that makes these taste like pizzeria bread
• Pizza sauce: A thick sauce works best so it does not make the dough soggy
• Dried Italian herbs: The classic oregano and basil combo delivers familiar pizza flavors
• Red pepper flakes: Even a tiny amount adds warmth that cuts through the cheese
• Unsalted butter: Melting it with garlic creates that restaurant-style garlic butter finish
• Garlic clove: Fresh minced garlic beats garlic powder for the brushing step

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer:

Set it to 375°F and let it run for about 3 minutes while you prep the dough

Roll out the dough:

Flatten the pizza dough on a floured surface into a roughly 10 by 14 inch rectangle

Add the fillings:

Spread pizza sauce over half the dough then sprinkle with both cheeses and seasonings

Fold and press:

Bring the empty half of dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal everything inside

Cut into strips:

Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 8 even strips

Twist and arrange:

Twist each strip several times then lay them in the air fryer basket without overcrowding

Make the garlic butter:

Mix the melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl

Brush and cook:

Brush the tops of each twist with garlic butter then air fry for 8 to 10 minutes turning halfway until golden

Finish and serve:

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like and serve them warm with extra sauce for dipping

Save

These became my go-to contribution for potlucks after someone called them cheese sticks for grownups. Seeing people reach for seconds before even trying the main dishes is the best feeling.

Make Them Your Own

Thin pepperoni slices tucked inside with the cheese turn these into a portable pizza roll experience. Chopped olives or sautéed mushrooms work too if you want to sneak in some vegetables.

Freezing Ahead

You can assemble and twist the bread then freeze them raw on a baking sheet. When you are ready to cook just add a couple minutes to the air frying time and they taste just as fresh.

Serving Ideas

These pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or soup for a casual weeknight dinner. They also shine alongside other finger foods at parties.

• Set out small bowls of marinara and ranch for dipping options
• Keep them warm in a 200°F oven if serving a crowd
• Make mini versions by cutting thinner strips for appetizer portions

Save

Even after all these batches of making these twists, the moment you pull them out and that garlic butter smell fills the kitchen still feels like a tiny celebration.

Recipe FAQs

→ What dough works best for these twists?

Refrigerated pizza dough provides an easy base with good texture, but homemade dough can be used for a fresher taste.

→ How do I achieve the perfect crispiness?

Air frying at 375°F for 8–10 minutes and turning halfway ensures golden, crispy twists without drying them out.

→ Can I customize the filling?

Yes, adding pepperoni slices or chopped olives enhances flavor and variety inside the twists.

→ What’s the best way to brush the twists before cooking?

Mix melted butter with minced garlic and gently brush over each twist to infuse rich, savory notes and help browning.

→ How should leftovers be stored or reheated?

Store in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to restore crispiness and warmth.