25+ Irresistible Bread Dough Appetizer Recipes For Your Next Gathering

When it comes to entertaining, appetizers set the stage for the meal to come. One of the most versatile and beloved bases for appetizers is bread dough.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, bread dough can be transformed into a wide array of delectable bites that will delight your guests.

From cheesy stuffed rolls and savory twists to crispy bites wrapped in bacon, the possibilities are truly endless.

In this article, we’ll explore over 25 delicious bread dough appetizer recipes that cater to various tastes and preferences.

These recipes range from the classic to the creative, allowing you to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.

With easy-to-follow instructions and accessible ingredients, you’ll find that making these appetizers is just as enjoyable as eating them.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create mouthwatering treats that will leave your guests clamoring for more!

25+ Irresistible Bread Dough Appetizer Recipes For Your Next Gathering

Incorporating bread dough into your appetizer repertoire opens up a world of flavors and textures, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

With over 25 recipes to choose from, you can easily cater to diverse palates while showcasing your creativity in the kitchen.

Whether you opt for savory cheese-filled rolls, crispy bacon-wrapped delights, or Mediterranean-inspired twists, each appetizer will bring warmth and satisfaction to your gathering.

As you embark on this delicious journey, remember that the heart of great cooking lies in the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

So, roll out that dough, get creative, and elevate your entertaining game with these delightful bread dough appetizers.

Your guests are sure to leave with full bellies and happy hearts!

Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread

This Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing. Each piece is packed with gooey cheese and infused with savory garlic butter, making it an ideal appetizer for gatherings. It’s not only easy to prepare but also offers a warm, comforting taste that everyone loves.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of store-bought bread dough (or homemade)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the bread dough into small, even-sized balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each dough ball into the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
5. Arrange the dough balls in a round baking dish or bundt pan, layering them with mozzarella and cheddar cheese between each row.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
7. Let cool slightly before serving; it’s best enjoyed warm for optimal cheesy goodness.

Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread is an irresistible appetizer that brings together the comforting flavors of cheese and garlic. Its pull-apart style makes it perfect for sharing, ensuring each guest gets a flavorful bite. Serve it as the ideal start to a meal or a fun snack to enjoy with friends.

Pepperoni Pizza Rolls

For a twist on traditional pizza, these Pepperoni Pizza Rolls use bread dough to create bite-sized pizza-inspired treats. Each roll is loaded with pepperoni, cheese, and Italian seasonings, delivering all the flavors of pizza in a fun and easy-to-eat form.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough (or homemade pizza dough)
• 1 cup pepperoni slices
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the bread dough into a rectangular shape, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
3. Brush the surface of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and garlic powder.
4. Layer the pepperoni slices evenly across the dough, followed by a generous sprinkling of mozzarella cheese.
5. Starting from one end, roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the roll into 1-inch pieces and place them cut-side down on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pepperoni Pizza Rolls bring together the classic pizza flavors everyone loves in a fun, bite-sized format. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, these rolls offer a delightful and shareable appetizer that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Pair with marinara for the perfect finishing touch.

Spinach and Feta Bread Twists

Spinach and Feta Bread Twists are a delightful Mediterranean-inspired appetizer, combining creamy feta and fresh spinach in a twisted bread form. Each twist is filled with rich, savory flavors, creating an appetizer that’s as appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the bread dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the spinach, feta, cream cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the spinach and feta mixture evenly across half of the dough rectangle.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing down lightly to seal. Cut the filled dough into 1-inch wide strips.
6. Twist each strip a few times, then place on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each twist with beaten egg for a golden finish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Let the twists cool slightly before serving.

Spinach and Feta Bread Twists offer a delicious way to enjoy Mediterranean flavors in an easy, hand-held appetizer. Perfect for any occasion, these twists are a beautiful blend of savory ingredients encased in soft, golden bread. Serve them as a unique and flavorful addition to your next gathering.

Bacon-Wrapped Breadstick Bites

These Bacon-Wrapped Breadstick Bites are savory and crispy appetizers with a delightful smoky flavor. They’re simple to make and combine the classic flavors of bacon and bread into an irresistible treat that’s perfect for parties or snack time.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 12 strips of bacon, cut in half
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp dried rosemary (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Marinara or ranch dressing for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the bread dough and cut it into thin strips, about 4 inches long.
3. Sprinkle each dough strip with Parmesan cheese, rosemary, and garlic powder.
4. Wrap each strip of dough with a half-piece of bacon, ensuring the ends are tucked in to keep the bacon secure.
5. Place each wrapped bite on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the dough is golden.
7. Let cool slightly and serve with marinara or ranch for dipping.

These Bacon-Wrapped Breadstick Bites offer a delectable blend of smoky bacon and soft, cheesy bread, creating a crowd-pleasing snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and they’re sure to be the first appetizer to disappear from the table!

Mini Stuffed Bread Boules

Mini Stuffed Bread Boules bring a delightful twist to classic bread bowls by turning them into individual-sized bites filled with creamy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for cozy gatherings, these mini bread boules are warm, hearty, and ideal for sharing.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the bread dough into small, golf-ball-sized pieces and shape them into rounds.
3. Use your thumb to create a small well in each dough round.
4. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, bacon, green onion, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon a small amount of filling into each dough well, then lightly pinch the edges to seal.
6. Place each stuffed dough ball on the baking sheet, leaving space between them.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden and the filling is warm and melty.

Mini Stuffed Bread Boules are a delicious and comforting appetizer that’s filled with rich, cheesy flavors in every bite. They’re a fun twist on traditional bread bowls, making them perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying as a snack.

Herbed Parmesan Bread Knots

Herbed Parmesan Bread Knots are soft, garlicky, and topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. These elegant knots make an excellent appetizer, pairing beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping or as a side to a larger meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. Roll out the bread dough and cut it into strips, about 6 inches long and 1/2 inch wide.
3. Tie each strip into a knot, tucking the ends underneath.
4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush each dough knot generously with the garlic-herb butter mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Arrange the knots on the baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Herbed Parmesan Bread Knots are a delightful and aromatic appetizer, perfect for starting any meal with a flavorful bite. Their soft, buttery texture and savory Parmesan topping make them a favorite at gatherings and a fantastic complement to a variety of main dishes.

Jalapeño Popper Bread Bites

These Jalapeño Popper Bread Bites bring the classic flavors of jalapeño poppers into a bite-sized bread form. Filled with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño mix, these bites have a hint of heat and a deliciously soft, golden crust that makes them an irresistible appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1-2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, bacon (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Flatten each dough ball, place a spoonful of filling in the center, and fold the dough around the filling to seal.
5. Arrange the bites on the baking sheet, seam side down, and brush with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bread bites are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Jalapeño Popper Bread Bites bring a spicy, creamy twist to classic appetizers. With just the right amount of heat and cheesiness, they’re ideal for gatherings where guests can pop one (or a few!) into their mouths and savor the delicious flavors of a jalapeño popper in a convenient, baked form.

Spinach and Artichoke Bread Cups

Spinach and Artichoke Bread Cups combine a beloved dip with soft, golden bread, creating a perfect two-bite appetizer that’s packed with flavor. These mini bread cups make for an elegant presentation and deliver a deliciously creamy filling in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1/2 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
2. Roll the bread dough into small balls, then press each ball into the mini muffin tin, forming a small cup.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the spinach and artichoke mixture into each bread cup, filling generously.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bread is golden and the filling is bubbly.
6. Let the bread cups cool slightly before serving.

Spinach and Artichoke Bread Cups offer the rich, creamy flavors of spinach-artichoke dip in a convenient, hand-held form. These elegant bread cups are ideal for any gathering, providing a warm, savory appetizer that’s sure to satisfy and impress.

Buffalo Chicken Bread Pinwheels

Buffalo Chicken Bread Pinwheels bring the iconic flavors of buffalo chicken wings into a fun, bite-sized bread roll. Packed with shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and melted cheese, these pinwheels are perfect for fans of bold, spicy flavors and make a great game-day appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional)
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. In a bowl, toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
4. Spread the buffalo chicken evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
5. Starting from one end, roll the dough into a log and slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
6. Place the pinwheels cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and garnish with green onions if desired.

Buffalo Chicken Bread Pinwheels offer a deliciously spicy twist on bread-based appetizers. With a blend of tangy buffalo sauce and melted cheese, these pinwheels are perfect for those who love bold flavors and make a fantastic addition to any appetizer spread or game-day gathering.

Garlic Herb Cheese-Stuffed Rolls

These Garlic Herb Cheese-Stuffed Rolls are soft and pillowy bread rolls filled with gooey, melted cheese. With a perfect blend of garlic, herbs, and warm cheese, these rolls are a delightful and savory addition to any appetizer spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough into small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Flatten each ball, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and fold the dough around the cheese, pinching to seal.
4. In a bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, parsley, and Italian seasoning.
5. Brush each roll with the garlic herb butter and place on the baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
7. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Garlic Herb Cheese-Stuffed Rolls are a deliciously soft and cheesy treat that’s both comforting and satisfying. The buttery garlic herb flavor combined with melty cheese makes these rolls perfect for sharing and dipping, adding a crowd-pleasing appetizer to any gathering.

Ham and Swiss Bread Roll-Ups

Ham and Swiss Bread Roll-Ups are simple yet elegant appetizers with the classic flavors of ham and cheese wrapped in a soft, golden bread dough. They’re easy to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for any occasion from brunch to holiday gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 6 slices of Swiss cheese, cut in half
• 6 slices of ham, cut in half
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough out and cut into 12 squares, about 3 inches each.
3. Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of ham on each square.
4. Roll each square tightly, pinching the edges to seal.
5. Arrange the roll-ups seam side down on the baking sheet and brush with beaten egg.
6. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired, and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Ham and Swiss Bread Roll-Ups are an elegant appetizer with the comforting combination of ham and melted Swiss cheese. The soft bread wrapping makes them easy to handle, and the addition of sesame seeds adds a touch of crunch, making these roll-ups a hit for any crowd.

Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels

Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels are flavorful and colorful appetizers perfect for Mediterranean flavor lovers. These pinwheels are made with pesto and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, making them a visually striking and tasty choice for any appetizer table.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1/4 cup pesto sauce
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the bread dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Spread a thin layer of pesto over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
5. Roll the dough into a log, then slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
6. Arrange the pinwheels cut-side down on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Pinwheels bring together the bright flavors of basil pesto and sun-dried tomatoes in a delightful pinwheel form. Their vibrant colors and unique taste make them a standout addition to any appetizer spread, offering guests a hint of Mediterranean flair in every bite.

Pepperoni Pizza Bread Bombs

These Pepperoni Pizza Bread Bombs are a fun twist on the classic pizza. With gooey cheese and pepperoni tucked into a soft bread shell, each bite bursts with pizza flavor, making these perfect for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a little pizza.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni cut into quarters)
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce (for dipping)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough into small balls, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
3. Flatten each ball and place a pinch of mozzarella and a few mini pepperoni slices in the center.
4. Wrap the dough around the filling, pinching it to seal.
5. Arrange the bread bombs on the baking sheet, seam side down.
6. Mix the olive oil, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, then brush over each bread bomb.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Pepperoni Pizza Bread Bombs are the perfect bite-sized pizza snack that’s bursting with cheesy, savory flavors. These little bread bombs are easy to handle and packed with pizza goodness, making them a fantastic choice for casual gatherings and family nights.

Feta and Olive Bread Twists

Feta and Olive Bread Twists are a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer with tangy feta and briny olives twisted into soft, golden bread. These savory twists are full of flavor, easy to make, and add an elegant touch to any spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/3 cup black or green olives, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Sprinkle the feta, chopped olives, and parsley evenly over the dough.
4. Fold the dough over the filling and gently press to seal. Cut into 1-inch strips and twist each strip.
5. Place the twists on the baking sheet, brush with beaten egg, and drizzle with a little olive oil.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Feta and Olive Bread Twists offer a delightful combination of Mediterranean flavors wrapped in a tender, twisted bread. They’re visually appealing, deliciously savory, and perfect for those who enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean.

Bacon-Wrapped Breadsticks

Bacon-Wrapped Breadsticks are a deliciously savory treat where each breadstick is wrapped in crispy bacon, creating a unique appetizer that’s simple yet indulgent. Perfect for bacon lovers, these breadsticks are a crowd-pleaser for any event.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of bread dough
• 8 slices of bacon (cut in half if needed to wrap evenly)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll the bread dough into thin strips, about 6 inches long.
3. Wrap each strip of bread dough with a slice of bacon, spiraling it around the dough.
4. Place the wrapped breadsticks on the baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and rosemary if desired.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden and the bacon is crispy.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Bacon-Wrapped Breadsticks bring a smoky, savory flavor that’s perfect for bacon lovers. The crispy bacon contrasts beautifully with the soft bread inside, making these breadsticks an irresistible addition to any appetizer lineup.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!