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Olive Garden Breadsticks


Servings: 12 breadsticks
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus rising time)
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes


Ingredients:

For the Breadsticks:

  • 1 cup + 2 tablespoons warm water (110°F)

  • 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided (+ more as needed)

  • 1 3/4 teaspoons salt

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted


Instructions:

  1. Activate the yeast:

    • In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the warm water, yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon of the granulated sugar. Whisk well until the yeast dissolves. Let it sit for about 10 minutes or until it becomes foamy.

  2. Make the dough:

    • Add the remaining sugar, 1 1/2 cups of flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed until combined.

    • Switch to the dough hook attachment. Gradually add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour and knead on low speed. If needed, add up to 1/4 cup more flour to make the dough smooth and elastic. This should take about 7-8 minutes.

  3. Let the dough rise:

    • Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place in a warm, draft-free area. Let it rise for about 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.

  4. Shape the breadsticks:

    • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into an 8-inch rope on a lightly floured surface.

    • Arrange the breadsticks on two parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them. Cover with plastic wrap or a towel and let the breadsticks rise for another 1 hour.

  5. Preheat the oven:

    • Preheat the oven to 425°F during the last 10 minutes of the second rise.

  6. Bake the breadsticks:

    • Bake the breadsticks for 11-13 minutes, or until they are light golden brown.

  7. Top the breadsticks:

    • While the breadsticks are baking, combine the salt and garlic powder in a small bowl. Once the breadsticks are done, immediately brush them with melted butter and sprinkle the garlic-salt mixture evenly over the top.

  8. Serve:

    • Serve the breadsticks warm, and enjoy!


Notes:

  • Adjust flour as needed: If the dough is too sticky, add small amounts of flour until it becomes smooth and elastic.

  • Perfect for dipping: Serve these breadsticks with marinara, Alfredo sauce, or your favorite dip!

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