Description
This Olive Garden Copycat Breadsticks recipe yields soft, golden, and perfectly seasoned homemade breadsticks that replicate the beloved restaurant favorite. Made with a simple yeast dough, these breadsticks are brushed with buttery garlic salt, making them an irresistible appetizer or side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup + 2 Tbsp warm water (110 - 115 degrees F)
- 1 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar (divided)
- 3 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
- 1 3/4 tsp salt
- 3 Tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
For the Topping
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, whisk together warm water, yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar until the yeast dissolves. Allow this mixture to rest for 10 minutes to become frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon plus 2 1/2 teaspoons of granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups of flour, 1 3/4 teaspoons salt, and vegetable oil to the yeast mixture. Fit the mixer with the paddle attachment and blend until the ingredients are well combined.
- Knead the Dough: Switch to the dough hook attachment, add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour, and knead on low speed. Gradually add up to 1/4 cup additional flour if needed while kneading until the dough becomes smooth and elastic, indicating proper gluten development.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to a large buttered mixing bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and place in a warm, draft-free area. Let it rise until doubled in size, approximately 1 1/2 hours.
- Divide and Shape: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal portions, about 2 ounces each. Keep them covered with plastic wrap as you work to prevent drying out. Roll each piece on a lightly floured surface into a 9-inch rope, then place the ropes onto two parchment paper-lined baking sheets.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with plastic wrap and allow it to rise for 1 hour. During the last 10 minutes, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake: Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Prepare Garlic Salt: While the breadsticks bake, whisk together 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder in a small bowl to create the garlic salt mixture.
- Finish Breadsticks: Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Then, sprinkle the garlic salt mixture evenly over the hot breadsticks.
- Serve and Store: Serve the breadsticks warm. Let any leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The dough should be smooth and elastic after kneading; if too sticky, add flour gradually.
- Ensure the water temperature is between 110°F and 115°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- If you prefer, olive oil can be used instead of vegetable oil for a richer flavor.
- For extra flavor, consider brushing the breadsticks with garlic butter instead of plain butter after baking.
- Store leftover breadsticks at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Bread, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American