If you’re searching for a quick and delicious side dish to complement your favorite pasta or soup, these Garlic Bread Sticks are the perfect choice. With their golden crust, buttery garlic flavor, and a hint of herbs, these breadsticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a tasty snack, these Garlic Bread Sticks are easy to make and bursting with flavor. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with almost any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Steps
1. Prepare the Dough: Start by dissolving the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter, and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size. This rise time is essential for achieving fluffy breadsticks with a soft interior.
3. Shape the Breadsticks: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log shape, about 6-8 inches long. Arrange the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one for them to expand.
4. Add the Garlic Butter: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, and dried oregano. Brush this garlic mixture generously over the breadsticks. If you want to take these breadsticks to the next level, sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese before baking.
5. Bake the Breadsticks: Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown. As soon as they come out of the oven, brush them with a little more melted butter and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Tips For Variation:
- Cheesy Garlic Bread Sticks: Add a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the breadsticks before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Herb-Infused Bread Sticks: Mix in dried basil, thyme, or rosemary with the garlic butter to create herb-infused breadsticks.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy version of these breadsticks.
- Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
- Stuffed Bread Sticks: Before rolling the dough into logs, place a strip of cheese or a spoonful of pesto inside, and then seal the edges for a stuffed surprise.
- Sweet Cinnamon Bread Sticks: For a sweet variation, skip the garlic and herbs, and instead, brush the breadsticks with melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar.
- Vegan Garlic Bread Sticks: Use vegan butter and skip the Parmesan cheese to make these breadsticks completely vegan.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free flour blend and adjust the dough’s consistency with more water or flour as needed.
Macros (per breadstick):
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions for Garlic Bread Sticks
- Can I freeze Garlic Bread Sticks?
- Yes, you can freeze these breadsticks. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
- How can I make the breadsticks softer?
- To make the breadsticks softer, slightly underbake them by a minute or two. You can also brush them with extra melted butter right after baking and cover them with a kitchen towel to trap moisture.
- Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
- Yes, you can substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic. Use about ½ teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the fresh garlic for the garlic butter topping.
- How do I store leftover breadsticks?
- Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to refresh their texture.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature, shape the breadsticks, and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Irresistibly Easy Garlic Bread Sticks Recipe That Will Elevate Any Meal
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water 110°F/45°C
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve 2 tablespoons of sugar in 1 cup of warm water (110°F/45°C). Sprinkle 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) of active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the yeast mixture and 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Breadsticks:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a log about 6-8 inches long. Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them.
Add the Garlic Butter:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Brush the mixture over the breadsticks. Optional: Sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake the Breadsticks:
- Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown. After baking, brush with more melted butter and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley (optional).