Description
Olive Garden Breadsticks are soft, buttery, and perfectly seasoned with garlic and salt—just like the restaurant favorite. These homemade breadsticks are easy to make and pair wonderfully with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
Topping
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt (for topping)
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Activate yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Mix and knead dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly, then knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 6–8 inches long, and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough pieces and let them rise again for 30 minutes until slightly puffy.
- Preheat oven: Set oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake breadsticks: Bake the breadsticks for 12–15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and are cooked through.
- Add topping and serve: While the breadsticks are still warm, brush them with melted butter mixed with garlic powder. Sprinkle with salt to taste and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Breadsticks can be made ahead and frozen after shaping. Thaw and let rise before baking.
- For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the melted butter before brushing.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Ensure water temperature is around 110°F to activate yeast properly.
- Optional: Serve with marinara or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
