Crispy Air Fryer Cheese Twists

The air fryer sitting on my counter has changed everything about how I entertain. Last Friday when friends dropped by unexpectedly, I grabbed a can of pizza dough from the fridge and had these twists ready in under 20 minutes. Everyone kept asking when I had time to make something so good.

I first made these during a Super Bowl party when I realized I had forgotten to pick up appetizers. The twisting part became sort of meditative while everyone else was busy catching up in the living room. When I brought out that first batch, the conversation shifted entirely toward the kitchen and stayed there.

Ingredients

• Refrigerated pizza dough: The secret to weeknight appetizers that actually happen, this dough rises beautifully and creates that perfect chewy exterior
• Shredded mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella adds too much moisture, so stick to low moisture shredded for that irresistible cheese pull without sogginess
• Grated Parmesan: This adds a salty umami punch that balances the mild mozzarella and makes every bite interesting
• Pizza sauce: Use a sauce you genuinely love eating cold because that flavor concentrates beautifully inside the dough
• Italian herbs: Dried herbs work better here than fresh since they distribute evenly and wont burn in the high heat
• Melted butter and garlic: Brush this mixture on before air frying for that garlic bread flavor that makes everything better

Instructions

Preheat and prepare:

Let your air fryer run at 375°F for about 3 minutes while you clear a floured workspace for rolling out the dough

Roll and fill:

Shape the dough into a rough rectangle and spread sauce over just one half, then layer on your cheeses and spices generously

Fold and slice:

Bring the naked dough over the filling like a book and press the edges together, then cut into 8 even strips with a sharp knife

Twist and brush:

Give each strip several confident twists and lay them in the air fryer without crowding, then coat them in your garlic butter mixture

Perfect golden brown:

Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are deeply golden and the cheese is bubbling through

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My youngest daughter started helping me twist these when she was six and now she makes them entirely on her own. There is something incredibly satisfying about watching a child master kitchen skills and take ownership of feeding people.

Make Them Your Own

The basic formula of dough, sauce, and cheese invites endless experimentation. I have added pepperoni slices, spinach, and even leftover roasted vegetables to great effect.

The Dough Dilemma

Homemade dough creates a superior texture but let us be honest about real life. The refrigerated version delivers consistently good results and keeps this recipe accessible for busy weeknights.

Timing Is Everything

These taste best straight from the air fryer when the cheese is at its melty peak. If you need to make them ahead, undercook slightly and reheat at 350°F for 2 minutes before serving.

• Set out all ingredients before starting because once you begin, things move quickly
• Keep a small bowl of flour nearby for dusting your hands and work surface
• Have warm pizza sauce ready for immediate dipping because that first bite matters

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There is a reason this recipe has become my go to for everything from casual movie nights to unexpected guests. Some food just makes people happy.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of dough works best for these twists?

Refrigerated pizza dough provides easy handling and consistent texture, but homemade dough works equally well for a fresher taste.

→ Can I add other fillings to the twists?

Yes, pepperoni slices or chopped olives can be added inside for extra flavor variations.

→ How do I prevent the twists from becoming soggy?

Air frying at a high temperature for 8–10 minutes crisps the exterior, while folding and twisting ensures even cooking and minimal moisture retention.

→ What herbs are ideal for seasoning these twists?

A blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme adds an aromatic Italian-inspired flavor to complement the cheese and sauce.

→ Can these twists be reheated after cooking?

Yes, reheating in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes restores their crispiness and warmth effectively.