Short Description

Recreate the iconic Olive Garden breadsticks at home with this straightforward recipe. These breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and brushed with a savory garlic butter topping, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal.Allrecipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the beloved Olive Garden breadsticks to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy their warm, garlicky goodness anytime. The breadsticks are easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether you’re serving them alongside pasta, soup, or salad, these breadsticks are sure to be a hit.It’s Always AutumnThe Belly Rules The Mind

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the breadsticks:

1 cup warm water (110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons sugar
2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the garlic butter topping:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon saltchef-in-training.com

Directions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, adding more flour if the dough is sticky, until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the breadsticks: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-8 inch rope. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
Second rise: Cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for 20–30 minutes until slightly puffy.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Prepare the garlic butter topping: While the breadsticks bake, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl.
Brush and serve: Once the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 breadsticks
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Baking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 2 hoursmedia.olivegarden.comThe US Sun+7Jamie Cooks It Up+7Cooking Classy+7

Variations

Cheesy Breadsticks: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the breadsticks before baking for a cheesy twist.
Herb-Infused: Add dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the dough for an herby flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Breadsticks: Omit the garlic in the topping and instead brush with melted butter and sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet treat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap the breadsticks in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is active?

After combining the yeast with warm water and sugar, it should become frothy within 5–10 minutes. If it doesn’t, the yeast may be inactive.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. However, you can skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 breadsticks
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These homemade Olive Garden breadsticks are soft, buttery, and brushed with savory garlic butter—just like the restaurant favorite! Perfect for serving with pasta, soups, or salads, they’re easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Instructions

Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir into a soft dough.
Knead on a floured surface for about 8 minutes, adding more flour if needed, until smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
Shape: Punch down dough and divide into 12 pieces. Roll each into a 6-8 inch rope. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second rise: Cover and let rise for 20–30 minutes until puffy.
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
Garlic butter topping: While baking, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and salt.
Brush and serve: Brush hot breadsticks generously with garlic butter. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with a bit of grated Parmesan before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat wrapped in foil in a warm oven.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American