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Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe

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4.1 from 7 reviews

This Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks recipe replicates the soft, buttery, and garlicky breadsticks famously served at Olive Garden. Soft dough is made with yeast, allowed to rise twice, shaped into ropes, baked to golden perfection, and brushed with a savory garlic butter topping. Perfect for serving alongside pasta, salads, or as a delightful appetizer.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American