Bunny Cheese Sticks (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Dough Essentials

01 - 1 tsp salt
02 - 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
03 - 2 cups plain flour
04 - 1 tsp sugar
05 - 1 packet of active dry yeast (roughly 2 ¼ teaspoons)
06 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Filling & Topping

07 - Sesame seeds for topping
08 - 1 egg for egg wash
09 - 1 cup mozzarella, shredded

# Instructions:

01 - Let's get your yeast bubbly! Start by pouring warm water into a small bowl. The temperature should feel like a cozy bath (not too hot or too cool). Mix in the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it rest for about five minutes. If it's foamy and bubbly, you've done it right—your yeast is ready to work its magic!
02 - Get a big mixing bowl and toss in the flour and salt. Add the olive oil next, then make a little dip in the center for the yeast mix. Pour in your activated yeast water and stir until it begins to clump. Move the dough onto a floured countertop, roll up those sleeves, and knead it for 6-8 minutes. You'll know it's done when it's smooth and bounces back a bit when poked.
03 - Coat a clean bowl with oil and place your dough ball inside. Cover it lightly with a damp towel, then let it chill out in a warm spot. Somewhere sunny or near a warm appliance is perfect. After about 30 minutes, it should puff up to double its size. That's the yeast doing its job!
04 - Now for the fun part! Gently press down your dough to get rid of air bubbles, then divide it into 12 even parts. Roll each piece into a skinny rope about 8 inches long. Loop the rope and twist it so it looks like a bunny, leaving a little gap for the ears. Split the top loop to form pointy tips for bunny ears. Place your creations on a baking sheet covered with parchment, leaving a bit of space between each one.
05 - Get your mozzarella ready and sneak tiny pockets of shredded cheese into each bunny. You’ll either create small dough pockets or gently lift parts of the dough to add the cheese. The goal? Surprise bursts of melty goodness when they bake!
06 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk your egg in a small bowl and brush it all over the bunny breadsticks. This makes them shine after baking. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a fun look and a hint of crunch.
07 - Slide your tray into the preheated oven and let the bunny breadsticks bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. You'll know they're ready when they've turned a golden brown. The aroma of fresh bread should fill your kitchen! Once done, let them cool for a couple of minutes so the gooey cheese inside doesn’t burn your tongue.
08 - These bunny-shaped treats are best served warm, with the cheese still melted and stretchy. Pair them with soup, pasta, or just enjoy as-is. If you don’t finish them all (unlikely!), store in an airtight container and reheat briefly to regain that fresh-baked feeling.

# Notes:

01 - Whimsical Cheesy Bunny Breads are just right for Easter parties, springtime feasts, or whenever you want some playful vibes on your table.
02 - You can prep the dough ahead of time—store it in the fridge overnight. Let it warm up for half an hour before shaping your bunnies.
03 - Mix it up! Try using your favorite cheese or tossing fresh herbs into the dough for added flavor.
04 - Kids will love getting creative—let them roll ropes and shape their own bunny designs!

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