Garlic Breadsticks

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110–115°F)
• 3 1/2 – 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl or stand mixer bowl, whisk together the sugar, yeast, and warm water. Let stand 8–10 minutes, until foamy and active.

2. 2

   Add 3½ cups flour, salt, and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add additional flour 1–2 tablespoons at a time only if the dough feels very wet.

3. 3

   Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes, or with a dough hook on medium speed for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl.

4. 4

   Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning once to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. 5

   Punch down the dough and roll into a log. Cut into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7–8 inch rope and place on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.

6. 6

   Cover loosely and let rise for 25–30 minutes, until slightly puffy but not doubled.

7. 7

   Preheat oven to 400°F. Brush breadsticks with 1 tablespoon melted butter and sprinkle with half the salt. Bake for 14–16 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until lightly golden on top.

8. 8

   Immediately brush hot breadsticks with remaining butter and sprinkle with remaining salt, garlic powder, and oregano. Serve warm.