Print

Copycat Italian Restaurant Soft Garlic Breadsticks

A plate piled high with golden brown, twisted Copycat Italian Restaurant Soft Garlic Breadsticks topped with melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make incredibly soft, fluffy, and intensely garlicky breadsticks at home that perfectly mimic the popular restaurant style, ideal for dipping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced very fine
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • Pinch of salt for topping

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the flour, salt, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 6 to 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should feel soft.
  4. First rise: Lightly grease a clean bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the breadsticks: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, even stick, about 8 to 10 inches long.
  6. Second rise: Arrange the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch between them. Cover loosely and let them rest for 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat and bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top.
  8. Prepare the garlic butter: While the breadsticks bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Stir in the minced fresh garlic, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt. Heat gently for 1 minute until fragrant, but do not brown the garlic.
  9. Glaze: Immediately after removing the hot breadsticks from the oven, brush them generously with the warm garlic butter mixture.
  10. Serve: Serve the breadsticks warm for the best soft texture.

Notes

  • For extra soft breadsticks, ensure your water temperature is correct for the yeast; too hot will kill it, too cold will slow it down.
  • Do not overbake; the goal is a pale golden exterior and a very soft interior.
  • You can make the dough ahead of time; let it rise, punch it down, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add 30 minutes to the second rise time if baking straight from the fridge.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorvista.com/copycat-italian-restaurant-soft-garlic-breadsticks/