Olive Garden’s breadsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade breadsticks capture the essence of Olive Garden’s famous version, offering a delightful combination of softness and flavor. The recipe is straightforward, using simple ingredients to achieve a restaurant-quality result. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to elevate a family meal, these breadsticks are sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, softened butter, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook on medium speed until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12-14 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-7 inch long rope and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Second Rise: Cover the shaped breadsticks with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until puffy.
  6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  7. Bake the Breadsticks: Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  8. Prepare the Topping: While the breadsticks are baking, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and mix in the garlic powder and salt.
  9. Brush and Serve: Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them with the melted butter mixture. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12-14 breadsticks. Preparation and rising time total about 1 hour and 40 minutes, with an additional 12-15 minutes for baking.

Variations

  • Cheesy Breadsticks: After brushing the baked breadsticks with the butter mixture, sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top, then return them to the oven for a minute until the cheese melts.
  • Herb-Infused Breadsticks: Add a teaspoon of dried Italian herbs to the dough for an aromatic twist.
  • Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them loosely in foil and place in a preheated 325°F (163°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, microwave them on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel for 15-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

How can I ensure my breadsticks are soft and fluffy?

Ensuring the yeast is properly activated and allowing sufficient rising time are key factors in achieving soft and fluffy breadsticks.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. It may reduce the rising time slightly, so keep an eye on the dough’s expansion.

Is it possible to make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After the first rise, cover and refrigerate it overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the second rise.

Can I freeze the baked breadsticks?

Absolutely. Once cooled, place the breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

How do I prevent the breadsticks from becoming too dense?

Avoid adding too much flour, as it can make the breadsticks dense. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

Can I use salted butter for the topping?

Yes, but consider reducing the added salt in the topping mixture to prevent over-salting.

How can I make the breadsticks vegan?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure the sugar is vegan-friendly.

What dishes pair well with these breadsticks?

These breadsticks complement a variety of dishes, including soups like Zuppa Toscana, salads, and pasta dishes such as fettuccine Alfredo.

Can I add toppings before baking?

Yes, you can sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or grated cheese on the breadsticks before baking for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Recreating Olive Garden’s iconic breadsticks at home is both simple and rewarding. With this recipe, you can enjoy soft, buttery, and flavorful breadsticks fresh from your oven, perfect for any occasion.


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Olive Garden’s breadsticks


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12–14 breadsticks
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Recreate Olive Garden’s breadsticks with this easy copycat recipe! Soft, buttery, and infused with garlic flavor, these homemade breadsticks are perfect for pasta, soup, or as a standalone treat.

 


Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
    • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
    • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
    • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
    • 4 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • For the Topping:
    • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  • Activate the Yeast:
    • Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  • Prepare the Dough:
    • Mix flour, softened butter, and salt in a bowl. Add the yeast mixture and knead by hand or with a mixer for 8–10 minutes until elastic.
  • First Rise:
    • Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
  • Shape Breadsticks:
    • Divide dough into 12–14 pieces, rolling each into a 6–7 inch rope. Arrange on a baking sheet.
  • Second Rise:
    • Cover breadsticks and let rise for 20–30 minutes until puffy.
  • Bake:
    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake breadsticks for 12–15 minutes until golden.
  • Prepare the Topping:
    • Melt butter and mix in garlic powder and salt. Brush over hot breadsticks immediately after baking.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, sprinkle herbs or grated cheese before baking.
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat as needed.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

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