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Close-up of golden brown, herb-topped breadsticks stacked on a white plate, showcasing their soft interior.

Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks: Soft, Buttery Garlic Breadsticks


  • Author: Ahazzam
  • Total Time: 1 hour 44 min
  • Yield: 12 breadsticks
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

You can make soft, buttery breadsticks just like the famous Olive Garden version right in your own kitchen. This easy homemade recipe delivers fluffy breadsticks topped with a rich garlic butter coating.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for dough)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (for topping)


Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the breadsticks: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope, about 10 to 12 inches long. Place the breadsticks on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
  5. Second rise: Cover the shaped breadsticks loosely and let them rest for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during this time.
  6. Bake: Bake the breadsticks for 10 to 14 minutes, or until they are light golden brown.
  7. Prepare the topping: While the breadsticks bake, whisk together the 1/2 cup melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.
  8. Coat: Immediately after removing the breadsticks from the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter topping. Serve warm as a perfect dinner side or appetizer.

Notes

  • For a quick rise, place the bowl in an oven that is turned off but has the light on.
  • If you prefer cheesy breadsticks, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the butter topping before serving.
  • You can use instant yeast if you skip the initial foaming step; just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 14 min
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 breadstick
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 350
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.5
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 32
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 5
  • Cholesterol: 15