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Breadsticks (Olive Garden )

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Olive Garden Style Breadsticks are soft, fluffy, buttery breadsticks with a light golden crust and a delicious garlic butter topping. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these homemade breadsticks taste just like the restaurant favorite and are perfect for serving with pasta, soups, salads, or as a comforting snack. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Garlic Butter Topping

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt or kosher salt

Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  • Add the flour, salt, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and allow it to rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  • Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a rope approximately 7–9 inches long.
  • Arrange the breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
  • Cover loosely and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until lightly golden.
  • While the breadsticks are still warm, brush generously with melted butter.
  • Combine the garlic powder and salt, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered breadsticks.
  • Serve warm.

Notes

Ensure the water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.Avoid adding too much flour during kneading to keep the breadsticks soft.Bread flour can be substituted for a slightly chewier texture.Brush with butter immediately after baking for the signature restaurant-style finish.For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning to the topping.These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh but reheat beautifully.