These cheesy breadsticks are easy to make, incredibly crispy on the outside, and soft and chewy on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack!
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan)
- Optional: sprinkle of parmesan cheese for the top.
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spice.
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy.
- Make the Dough:
- Add 2 1/2 cups of flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
- Mix with a wooden spoon or a dough hook on a stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
- Gradually add more flour, if needed, until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning the dough to coat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), and Italian seasoning.
- Shape the Breadsticks:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza stone.
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
- Roll or stretch the dough into a large rectangle, about 12×16 inches.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the garlic butter.
- Cut the dough into strips, about 1-inch wide.
- Bake:
- Arrange the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
- Optional: sprinkle parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes on top.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy breadsticks, bake them on a pizza stone.
- Add other toppings, such as pepperoni, cooked vegetables, or different cheeses.
- Brush with extra melted butter after baking for a shinier finish.
- For a softer breadstick, reduce the baking time slightly.
- For a more golden brown crust, you can brush an egg wash on the breadsticks before baking.