Homemade Breadsticks: An Olive Garden Copycat Recipe
My favorite homemade breadstick recipe! These breadsticks always turn out perfectly soft, fluffy, and chewy, with an irresistible garlic butter topping. Made fresh from scratch, they’re even better than Olive Garden’s breadsticks. They’re a perfect side dish, whether pairing them with soup, salad, or spaghetti.
Breadsticks can be hit-or-miss at restaurants, especially chain restaurants like Little Caesars. Sometimes, they’re perfect, but other times, they’re overcooked, dry, bland, or too salty. Making them at home guarantees perfection every time you follow this easy recipe. Plus, you can serve them with your favorite Italian-style dip for extra flavor.
For a sweet twist, turn them into cinnamon-sugar-coated breadsticks, or for a savory variation, sprinkle them with cheese.
Breadstick Ingredients and Possible Substitutes:
- All-purpose flour: Preferably use unbleached for the best flavor. Bread flour works great, too.
- Active dry yeast: Instant or rapid-rise yeast can be used (reduce rise times if using these). There is no need to prove if using instant or rapid-rise.
- Granulated sugar: Lightly sweetens the breadsticks. Honey can be substituted; use only 1 1/2 Tbsp.
- Salt: Essential for flavor. Table salt or acceptable sea salt will work.
- Vegetable oil: Olive oil for a more authentic Italian touch, but canola oil works too.
- Butter: For a vegan option, use vegan butter.
- Garlic powder: For perfect garlic breadsticks. Fresh garlic can be used for a richer flavor by pressing one clove, mixing with melted butter, and brushing over breadsticks. Sautéed or roasted garlic butter is also delicious.
How to Make Homemade Breadsticks:
- Proof yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm water with 1/2 tsp sugar. Let it rest and activate for 10 minutes.
- Mix ingredients: Add granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 3/4 tsp salt, and vegetable oil. Blend with an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until combined.
- Knead dough: Switch to a hook attachment, add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour, and knead on low speed, adding up to 1/4 cup additional flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let dough rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and rest for 1 1/2 hours.
- Shape dough: Divide the risen dough into 12 pieces, shape each piece into a 9-inch rope on a lightly floured surface, and transfer to lined baking sheets.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise for 1 hour. Near the end of rising, preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Bake: Bake for 11-13 minutes until golden. Brush with butter and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder.
Cheese Breadsticks Variation:
- Brush with butter and garlic powder after the breadsticks have risen, just before baking (skip the salt finish).
- Sprinkle with cheeses like provolone, parmesan, and asiago before baking. Bake in the center of the oven.
Cinnamon Sugar Breadsticks Variation:
- Reduce salt in the breadstick recipe to 3/4 tsp.
- Bake as directed, then omit the garlic powder and salt topping. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 Tbsp cinnamon.
- Drizzle with a vanilla or cream cheese glaze, or use it as a dip.
Tips for the Best Breadsticks:
- If the yeast doesn’t bubble after the 10-minute rest, it isn’t gone well. Start with new yeast (ensure it hasn’t expired).
- Allow enough time for the dough and shaped breadsticks to rise so they’re fluffy.
- Move the oven rack up one level for a more golden brown top.
- Be careful not to bake too long; they should be just done to avoid being doughy or dry.
- Serve warm. If you need to reheat them, wrap them in foil and heat in a 325-degree oven for about 5 minutes.
Can Breadsticks be Frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before or after shaping, thaw it, let it finish the second rise, and bake, or freeze it after baking.
Sauces to Serve with Breadsticks:
- Homemade Marinara Sauce
- Alfredo Sauce
- Vodka Sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil and pepper
- Pizza Sauce
- Ranch (unauthentic, but delicious)
Breadsticks USA: A Culinary Staple
Breadsticks are a beloved staple in many American households and are often served as a side dish or appetizer in restaurants across the USA. From their soft, fluffy texture to the delicious garlic butter topping, breadsticks are a versatile and crowd-pleasing addition to any meal. Whether you enjoy them at home or in a restaurant, breadsticks are a classic favorite.
Breadstick Ricky: A Fun Twist
For a fun and unique twist, try making “Breadstick Ricky” by adding playful elements to your breadsticks. You can shape them into different forms or add creative toppings to make them more enjoyable. This is a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen and make mealtime more fun.
Quick Breadsticks: For Those in a Hurry
Sometimes, you need a quick and easy breadstick recipe that doesn’t compromise flavor. Quick breadsticks are perfect when you want delicious, homemade breadsticks but are short on time. These breadsticks can be made in a fraction of the time and still deliver that soft, fluffy texture and irresistible garlic butter topping.
Grissini Breadsticks: A Crispier Option
For a crispier alternative, try making Grissini breadsticks. These thin and crisp Italian breadsticks provide a delightful crunch with every bite. They’re perfect for serving with antipasti or as a snack. Grissini breadsticks are also great for dipping into olive oil or your favorite sauces.
How to Reheat Olive Garden Breadsticks
If you have leftover Olive Garden breadsticks, reheating them correctly is critical to maintaining their delicious flavor and texture. Here’s how to reheat them for the best results:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees. Wrap the breadsticks in foil and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave Method: Place the breadsticks on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for about 1 minute.
Breadsticks: A Versatile and Delicious Addition
Breadsticks are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit any taste. Whether you prefer soft and fluffy, cheesy, sweet, or crispy, there’s a breadstick recipe for everyone. They’re perfect for serving soups, salads, pasta dishes, or simply on their own with a dipping sauce.
Breadstick Ingredients and Possible Substitutes:
- All-purpose flour: Preferably use unbleached for the best flavor. Bread flour works great, too.
- Active dry yeast: Instant or rapid-rise yeast can be used (reduce rise times if using these). It is not necessary to prove whether instant or rapid-rise is used.
- Granulated sugar: Lightly sweetens the breadsticks. Honey can be substituted; use only 1 1/2 Tbsp.
- Salt: Essential for flavor. Table salt or acceptable sea salt will work.
- Vegetable oil: Olive oil for a more authentic Italian touch, but canola oil works too.
- Butter: For a vegan option, use vegan butter.
- Garlic powder: For perfect garlic breadsticks. Fresh garlic can be used for a richer flavor by pressing one clove, mixing with melted butter, and brushing over breadsticks. Sautéed or roasted garlic butter is also delicious.
How to Make Homemade Breadsticks:
- Proof yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm water with 1/2 tsp sugar. Let it rest and activate for 10 minutes.
- Mix ingredients: Add granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 3/4 tsp salt, and vegetable oil. Blend with an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until combined.
- Knead dough: Switch to a hook attachment, add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour, and knead on low speed, adding up to 1/4 cup additional flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Let dough rise: Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and rest for 1 1/2 hours.
- Shape dough: Divide the risen dough into 12 pieces, shape each piece into a 9-inch rope on a lightly floured surface, and transfer to lined baking sheets.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise for 1 hour. Near the end of rising, preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Bake: Bake for 11-13 minutes until golden. Brush with butter and sprinkle with salt and garlic powder.
Breadsticks are always a hit and can be adapted to suit any meal or occasion. With this homemade breadstick recipe, you can enjoy fresh, delicious breadsticks that are even better than those from Olive Garden. Whether you prefer them savory with garlic and cheese or sweet with cinnamon sugar, homemade breadsticks will surely please everyone at the table.
