Olive Garden Breadsticks
Ingredients:
For the breadsticks:
1 cup warm water (110°F, or just warm to the touch)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons sugar
2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
For the garlic butter topping:
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a soft dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, adding more flour if the dough is sticky, until smooth and elastic.
First rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the breadsticks:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-8 inch rope. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart.
Second rise:
Cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for 20–30 minutes until slightly puffy.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make the garlic butter topping:
While the breadsticks bake, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl.
Brush and serve:
Once the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.