Ingredients
Dough
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp salt
Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the all-purpose flour, softened unsalted butter, and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture. Knead by hand or with the dough hook on medium speed for 8-10 minutes until you achieve a smooth, elastic dough.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size, which allows the dough to develop flavor and structure.
- Shape the Breadsticks: Gently punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into 12-14 equal portions. Roll each portion into 6-7 inch long ropes. Place the shaped breadsticks on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped breadsticks again with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until they become puffy and slightly risen.
- Preheat the Oven: While the breadsticks are undergoing their second rise, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the ideal temperature for baking.
- Bake the Breadsticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top, indicating they are cooked through and deliciously soft inside.
- Prepare the Topping: While the breadsticks bake, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the garlic powder and salt to create the flavorful garlic butter topping.
- Brush the Breadsticks: Immediately after removing the breadsticks from the oven, generously brush them with the prepared garlic butter mixture while they are still warm, infusing them with rich garlic flavor and a beautiful sheen.
Notes
- Ensure the water used to activate yeast is warm (about 110°F/45°C) to avoid killing the yeast.
- For softer breadsticks, do not add too much flour; dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Letting the dough rise twice is key to achieving fluffy and airy breadsticks.
- You can sprinkle grated Parmesan or dried Italian herbs on top after brushing with garlic butter for added flavor.
- Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container; reheat in the oven to restore softness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American