Description
Soft and flavorful garlic herb breadsticks made from scratch using a simple yeast dough, brushed with a rich garlic herb butter, and baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a side for soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Garlic Herb Butter
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Topping
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine 3 1/2 cups flour, olive oil, salt, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, adding more flour as needed up to 4 cups. Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface or with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 to 15 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-8 inch long rope and arrange on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped breadsticks loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 20-30 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and thyme until combined.
- Bake the Breadsticks: Brush the breadsticks generously with the garlic herb butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Brush and Serve: Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush with any remaining garlic herb butter. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- You can substitute dried herbs with fresh ones where indicated for a brighter flavor.
- Additional grated Parmesan adds a savory finish but is optional.
- Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container and reheat briefly before serving.
