Description
Soft, fluffy, and brushed with a buttery garlic topping, these homemade Olive Garden-style breadsticks are the perfect complement to soups, salads, and pasta dishes. Lightly golden on the outside with a tender, pillowy inside, these breadsticks are irresistibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Add the softened butter and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead & Rise: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the dough and divide it into 10-12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7-inch log and place them on a lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and salt.
- Brush & Serve: Brush the warm breadsticks with the garlic butter and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra softness, cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel after baking to trap steam.
- You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1.5 hours rising time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American