These golden garlic butter breadsticks are everything you love about soft, fluffy rolls with the added joy of a savory, buttery coating. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, parsley, and (optional!) Parmesan cheese, they’re an ideal pairing for soups, salads, pasta or just as a comforting snack all on their own. This recipe is beginner-friendly and easily adaptable. Whether you make them short and plump or long and twisted, each breadstick comes out light, tender, and packed with flavor. It’s no wonder they’re a favorite at the dinner table make a double batch and watch them disappear!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ cups warm water
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1 tablespoon instant yeast
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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½ teaspoon salt
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3 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
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3 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
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Add salt and begin adding flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
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Knead for 5-6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
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Punch down dough and roll out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (approx. 12×16 inches).
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Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice dough into 12-16 strips.
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Twist each strip slightly and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Let rest uncovered for 20-30 minutes while the oven preheats to 375°F (190°C).
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Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
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While hot, brush generously with melted butter mixed with garlic powder, parsley, and Parmesan (if using).
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 60 minutes rising) | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 90 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per breadstick | Servings: 12-16 breadsticks
The Magic of Homemade Breadsticks: Soft, Buttery, and Utterly Irresistible
Few things bring as much warmth to the table as the aroma of fresh, buttery breadsticks wafting through the kitchen. If you’re someone who adores the comfort of homemade baking, these Divine Breadsticks are the perfect combination of simplicity and decadence. From their fluffy texture to the golden, garlic-infused finish, these breadsticks are more than just a side they’re the main event at any meal.
What Makes These Breadsticks Truly “Divine”?
There are breadsticks and then there are Divine Breadsticks. What sets these apart is the soft, pillow-like interior that contrasts beautifully with the slightly crisp, buttery exterior. After baking, each breadstick is bathed in a flavorful mix of melted butter, garlic, and herbs, giving them that restaurant-style richness that’s both nostalgic and mouthwatering.
Unlike pre-packaged or frozen bread options, these homemade breadsticks are made with pantry-staple ingredients and require no special equipment beyond a baking sheet and a bit of kneading. What you get is a flavor-packed breadstick that’s warm, aromatic, and always welcome at the dinner table.
A Versatile Side Dish for Every Occasion
One of the best things about this breadstick recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a formal holiday gathering or just making spaghetti for the kids on a Tuesday night, these breadsticks fit right in. Serve them alongside:
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Creamy pastas like fettuccine Alfredo or baked ziti
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Hearty soups such as tomato basil, minestrone, or creamy potato
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Crisp salads topped with vinaigrette and fresh vegetables
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Charcuterie boards as a soft, savory bread option
They’re also perfect on their own as a snack or dipped into marinara, garlic aioli, or herbed olive oil.
The Secrets to Fluffy, Buttery Breadsticks
Let’s talk texture because when it comes to breadsticks, it’s everything. The dough is enriched just enough to create a soft and airy structure without becoming dense. The secret lies in three main techniques:
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Using instant yeast: This helps the dough rise faster and ensures a more reliable proof, especially for beginner bakers.
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Letting the dough rise twice: The initial rise gives the dough strength, while the second (shorter) rise before baking allows for that signature puffiness.
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Butter bath post-bake: As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, they’re brushed with melted butter. Not only does this add flavor, but it also locks in moisture and keeps the exterior soft instead of crusty.
To elevate the flavor further, adding garlic powder and dried herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning to the butter creates a beautifully aromatic finish.
Tips and Tricks for Baking Success
Making homemade breadsticks might seem intimidating if you’re new to baking with yeast, but this recipe is remarkably forgiving. Here are a few helpful tips to guarantee great results every time:
1. Flour Gradually
Start by adding 3 cups of flour and increase as needed. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not clingy. Too much flour will lead to dry or dense breadsticks.
2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
Even though it’s tempting to speed things up, giving the dough ample time to rise ensures your breadsticks will be light and tender.
3. Shape with Care
Use a pizza cutter for uniform breadsticks and don’t worry about perfection. The twisted shapes add rustic charm.
4. Customize Your Toppings
Feel free to get creative with the butter topping. Add shredded Parmesan, sprinkle sea salt, or even infuse your butter with roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make It Ahead of Time
This recipe also works beautifully if you want to prep ahead. After shaping the breadsticks, you can refrigerate the dough on the baking sheet, covered, for several hours or even overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before popping them in the oven.
You can also freeze fully baked breadsticks. Simply reheat in the oven wrapped in foil at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Health and Dietary Notes
While these breadsticks are not gluten-free or low-carb, they can be adapted for different dietary needs. For example:
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Vegan variation: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and ensure sugar and flour are vegan-approved.
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Dairy-free: Omit Parmesan and use dairy-free margarine or olive oil in place of butter.
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Whole grain version: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor.
Family-Approved and Crowd-Pleasing
There’s something about homemade bread that feels like a labor of love. And these breadsticks, with their soft pull-apart interior and golden buttery tops, are one of those recipes that bring people together. Whether you’re feeding a picky toddler, a carb-loving teenager, or a room full of hungry guests, these breadsticks never disappoint.
They’re also fun to make with kids! Little hands love twisting the dough into fun shapes, and everyone enjoys brushing on the melted butter.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
You may have tried other breadsticks before, but once you experience the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of these Divine Breadsticks, they’ll quickly become a go-to in your meal planning. They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and bring an elevated touch to any dish they’re served with.
Whether it’s for Sunday dinner, a date night in, or a casual weeknight meal, these breadsticks are always a good idea.
Conclusion:
Soft, golden, and full of buttery garlic goodness these breadsticks live up to their “divine” name in every sense. They’re an easy yet impressive side dish that never fails to earn rave reviews. With their straightforward ingredients, foolproof method, and irresistible flavor, they embody the very best of home baking.
So next time you’re looking to upgrade your meal or just need a little comfort food magic, whip up a batch of these heavenly breadsticks. One bite, and you’ll understand why they’ve become a favorite in so many kitchens.
