Homemade Breadsticks
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of warm breadsticks wafting through your kitchen. Making homemade breadsticks from scratch is easier than you might think, and the result is a soft, buttery, and flavorful treat that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, and salads. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delightful breadsticks that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these Homemade Breadsticks are sure to impress.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– Fluffy and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
– Simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
– Versatile flavoring options to suit your taste.
– Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or olive oil.
– Great for meal prep and can be frozen for later use.
What You’ll Gather
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 1/4 tablespoons instant dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
Cook’s Kit
- Mixing bowl – A medium-sized bowl will work best for combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key to perfect breadsticks.
- Kitchen towel – To cover the dough while it rises.
- Baking sheet – A standard baking sheet will suffice for baking the breadsticks.
- Silicone spatula or wooden spoon – For mixing the dough.
- Pastry brush – For brushing melted butter on top.
Stepwise Method: Homemade Breadsticks
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as it activates the yeast, which will help your breadsticks rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add in the table salt and olive oil. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may need to use your hands to bring the dough together if it becomes too difficult to mix with a spoon.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Breadsticks
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces, about 12-16, depending on how thick you want your breadsticks. Roll each piece into a long rope shape, about 6-8 inches in length, and place them on a greased baking sheet.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped breadsticks with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. This will make them even fluffier!
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
While the breadsticks are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 8: Add Toppings
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Brush this mixture generously over the risen breadsticks. Finally, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 9: Bake
Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake!
Step 10: Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, with your favorite dipping sauce.
Seasonal Twists
- Add a pinch of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet twist.
- Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough for a Mediterranean flair.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for a cheesy delight.
- Season with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
- Over-proofing the dough can lead to dense breadsticks. Always keep an eye on the rising times.
- Using water that is too hot can kill the yeast. Ensure it’s around 110°F for optimal activation.
- Too much flour can result in dry breadsticks. Measure accurately and add flour gradually during kneading.
- Not allowing the dough to rise enough can lead to flat breadsticks. Be patient and let it double in size.
Best Ways to Store
To store leftover Homemade Breadsticks, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each breadstick in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Handy Q&A
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes! All-purpose flour works perfectly for this recipe and will yield soft and chewy breadsticks.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply let it come to room temperature, shape, and bake as directed.
What can I dip my breadsticks in?
These Homemade Breadsticks are delicious dipped in marinara sauce, garlic butter, or even a creamy ranch dressing.
Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Easy Homemade Pizza – Pair your breadsticks with a delicious homemade pizza for a complete meal.
- Creamy Tomato Basil Soup – Serve your breadsticks alongside this comforting soup.
- Vegan Pasta Primavera – Enjoy a fresh pasta dish that complements your breadsticks beautifully.
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – Finish off your meal with a sweet treat.
Before You Go
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making your own breadsticks at home. They are simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner, a special gathering, or just a cozy night in, these Homemade Breadsticks will elevate your meal and impress your guests. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the warm, buttery goodness of freshly baked breadsticks. Happy baking!
Homemade Breadsticks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, instant dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add in the table salt and olive oil. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal pieces, about 12-16, and roll each piece into a long rope shape.
- Cover the shaped breadsticks with the kitchen towel again and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
- While the breadsticks are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Brush this mixture generously over the risen breadsticks.
- Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs or spices to the dough.
- These breadsticks can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with marinara sauce for the ultimate dipping experience.
