Olive Garden Breadsticks (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Breadsticks
01 -
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
02 -
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
03 -
2 tbsp granulated sugar
04 -
4 cups all-purpose flour
05 -
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
06 -
1 tbsp salt
→ For the Garlic Butter Topping
07 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
08 -
1 tsp garlic powder
09 -
1/2 tsp salt
# Instructions:
01 -
Mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it gets foamy and bubbly. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work!
02 -
In a large bowl (or stand mixer if you have one), put the flour, softened butter, and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture. If using a mixer, use the dough hook on medium speed. If mixing by hand, roll up those sleeves and knead until the dough feels smooth and stretchy, about 8-10 minutes.
03 -
Lightly grease a clean bowl with a bit of oil. Place your dough ball in there, flip it around so it's coated in oil, then cover with a kitchen towel. Put it somewhere warm and draft-free for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.
04 -
Once the dough has puffed up, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into 12-14 equal pieces. Roll each piece between your hands or on the counter into a rope about 6-7 inches long. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
05 -
Cover your shaped breadsticks with a kitchen towel and let them rest for another 20-30 minutes. They should get puffy again. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F.
06 -
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them - you want them golden brown but not too dark.
07 -
While the breadsticks are baking, melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder and salt. As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter mixture. Don't be shy with it!
08 -
These are best served warm when they're soft and the garlic butter is still glistening. They're perfect for dipping into soup or pasta sauce.
# Notes:
01 -
These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, but you can store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
02 -
To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes.
03 -
For extra flavor, try adding 1/4 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the garlic butter mixture.