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Olive Garden Breadsticks

Olive Garden Breadsticks
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Olive Garden Breadsticks are soft, buttery, and garlicky breadsticks that combine a tender crumb with a delicate crispy exterior. Made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, yeast, and garlic butter, these homemade breadsticks capture the iconic flavor perfectly. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or party favorite, they’re quick to prepare and delightful to share.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
  • 1 egg (optional, for richer dough and shiny appearance)

Garlic Butter Glaze

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Shredded parmesan or mozzarella cheese (for cheesy topping)
  • Fresh or dried Italian herbs like rosemary, oregano, basil
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne powder (for spicy kick)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Plant-based milk and vegan butter (for vegan version)
  • Whole wheat flour (substitute half of all-purpose flour)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Activate the yeast by mixing it with warm milk and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly and lively. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic powder. Slowly add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  2. Knead and Let Rise: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  3. Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal strips. Roll each strip into sticks about half an inch thick. Arrange the sticks close together on a greased baking sheet.
  4. Second Rise: Cover the arranged breadsticks and allow them to rise for another 20-30 minutes to ensure softness and fluffiness.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
  6. Brush with Garlic Butter: While warm, generously brush the breadsticks with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and a pinch of salt. This seals in the signature Olive Garden flavor.

Notes

  • Use warm milk and environment to properly activate yeast.
  • Allow the dough to double in size for soft breadsticks.
  • Brush garlic butter immediately after baking for best flavor absorption.
  • Use fresh garlic powder for a more potent garlic flavor.
  • Place dough sticks close together to keep sides soft and prevent drying.
  • You can add minced fresh garlic to the butter glaze for stronger flavor, but use sparingly.
  • Leftover breadsticks should be wrapped tightly to maintain softness.
  • Dough or baked breadsticks can be frozen for up to one month.
  • To reheat, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, then brush with garlic butter again.

Nutrition

Keywords: Olive Garden breadsticks, garlic breadsticks, soft breadsticks, homemade breadsticks, Italian breadsticks, appetizer, garlic butter breadsticks

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/olive-garden-breadsticks/