Description
These homemade Olive Garden-style breadsticks are soft, buttery, and perfectly seasoned, just like the ones served warm at the restaurant. They’re slightly chewy with a tender crumb, brushed with garlic butter and lightly salted for that iconic flavor. Whether served with soup, salad, or pasta, they’re an irresistible addition to any meal.
Ingredients
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ tsp salt
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt (for topping)
Instructions
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add the softened butter, salt, and flour. Mix until the dough comes together, then knead for 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes in a mixer with a dough hook, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 7 inches long and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover the shaped breadsticks loosely with a towel and let rise again for 20-30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-14 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.
While the breadsticks are baking, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and salt.
Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.
Serve warm.
Notes
For a fluffier texture, let the shaped breadsticks rise longer before baking. You can double the garlic butter topping for extra flavor, and these also freeze well after baking—just reheat in the oven before serving. They’re especially great for dipping in marinara, Alfredo sauce, or soup.