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Olive Garden Breadsticks: The Ultimate Guide to Copycat Recipes

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Soft, garlicky, and addictive homemade breadsticks, perfect with soup, salad, or as a snack. Copycat Olive Garden recipe!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 6 1/2 – 7 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the salt and 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment. If mixing by hand, use a sturdy spoon or your hands.
  3. Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 6-8 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  4. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
  6. Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces.
  7. Shape the Breadsticks: Roll each piece of dough into a long, thin rope, about 8-10 inches long.
  8. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the shaped breadsticks on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave about an inch of space between each breadstick.
  9. Second Rise: Cover the baking sheets with plastic wrap or clean kitchen towels. Let the breadsticks rise for another 20-30 minutes.
  10. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  11. Bake: Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
  12. Melt the Butter: While the breadsticks are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave.
  13. Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, oregano, and parsley. Mix well to combine.
  14. Brush with Garlic Butter: As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter topping.
  15. Serve Immediately: Serve the breadsticks immediately.

Notes

  • The water temperature is crucial for activating the yeast. It should be warm, but not too hot. If the water is too hot, it will kill the yeast.
  • Overkneading can result in tough breadsticks. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but not overly stiff.
  • Make sure the dough rises properly in a warm place. This will ensure that the breadsticks are light and airy.
  • While fresh garlic might seem like a good idea, garlic powder is key to achieving that authentic Olive Garden flavor. Fresh garlic can burn easily in the oven.
  • Don’t be afraid of the salt! It’s essential for flavor and helps to control the yeast.
  • The amount of flour needed may vary depending on the humidity and the type of flour you use. Add flour gradually until the dough is slightly tacky but not sticky.
  • Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper will prevent the breadsticks from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
  • Overbaked breadsticks will be dry and hard. Bake until they are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
  • Don’t skimp on the garlic butter! It’s what makes these breadsticks so irresistible.
  • Serve these breadsticks with your favorite Italian dishes, such as pasta, soup, or salad. They are also delicious on their own as a snack.

Find it online: https://mmmflavors.com/olive-garden-breadsticks/