Description
Golden, pillowy breadsticks emerge from the oven, exuding a buttery aroma that envelops your kitchen. This easy recipe captures the essence of Olive Garden’s famous breadsticks, featuring a delightful combination of garlic and herbs. With a soft interior and a slight chewiness, they’re perfect for any meal, whether as a side dish or a snack. Customize them with your favorite toppings or dips for a versatile treat that enhances any occasion. Enjoy the magic of homemade comfort food with these irresistible breadsticks!
Ingredients
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2.25 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, for brushing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Combine 1 cup of warm water with 2 teaspoons of sugar and 1 packet of active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir gently and let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the yeast mixture while stirring continuously until a dough starts to form.
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl.
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about an hour.
Notes
Storage: To store leftover breadsticks, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat breadsticks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For a softer texture, you can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds.
Serving: Serve the breadsticks warm, brushed with melted butter and sprinkled with garlic powder and dried Italian herbs for that authentic flavor. Pair them with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat. They make an excellent addition to any Italian meal or as an appetizer.
Chef’s Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the butter before brushing it on the breadsticks. Additionally, letting the dough rise in a slightly warm oven can speed up the proofing process and yield a fluffier texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Bake
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0