Making Parmesan Bunny Ears is surprisingly easy and quick, making it a perfect recipe for busy holiday preparations or even a fun activity to do with kids. Here’s a step-by-step guide to create these adorable and delicious treats:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the Parmesan cheese to a crispy perfection without burning. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Parchment paper ensures that the bunny ears won’t stick to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup. Silicone mats are reusable and provide even heat distribution.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the finely grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly distributed throughout the cheese. This ensures that every bunny ear will be flavorful and well-seasoned. Using your hands to toss the ingredients can be the most effective way to ensure even distribution.
3. Shape the Bunny Ears on Baking Sheets: Now comes the fun part – shaping the bunny ears! Take approximately 1 tablespoon of the Parmesan cheese mixture and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Using your fingers or the back of a spoon, gently spread the cheese into an elongated oval shape, roughly resembling a bunny ear. Aim for ears that are about 3-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide at the widest point. Repeat this process, spacing the bunny ears about 1-2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This spacing is important to allow for even baking and to prevent the ears from sticking together as they melt and spread slightly. You can make the ears slightly thicker for a sturdier crisp, or thinner for a more delicate, lace-like texture, depending on your preference.
4. Bake Until Golden and Crispy: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the Parmesan bunny ears are melted, golden brown around the edges, and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the cheese. The edges should be nicely browned and the centers should be set but not burnt. If you want them extra crispy, you can bake them for a minute or two longer, but be careful not to let them burn.
5. Cool Completely on Baking Sheets: Once the bunny ears are baked to a golden crisp, remove the baking sheets from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. This is crucial for them to crisp up properly. As they cool, they will harden and become easier to handle. Resist the urge to move them while they are still warm, as they will be delicate and can break easily. Allow at least 10-15 minutes for them to cool and firm up completely.
6. Carefully Remove and Serve: Once completely cooled and firm, carefully peel the Parmesan bunny ears off the parchment paper or silicone mat. They should lift off easily. If any are sticking slightly, use a thin spatula to gently loosen them. Arrange the Parmesan Bunny Ears on a serving platter and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, although they may lose some of their crispness over time.