Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups warm water ((80-90°F))
• 1 tsp dry active yeast
• 2 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 5 cups bread flour* ((plus more for dusting))
• 1 tsp garlic salt ((I used Lawr'ys brand))
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese ((I used the Kraft brand in a shaker))
• 1/3 cup canola oil ((or any neutral-flavored oil))
• 1 grade AA egg

Instructions

1. 1

   Activate the yeast: In a liquid measuring cup, proof the yeast. Combine 2 cups of warm water, 1 tsp of yeast, and 2 Tbsp of sugar. Let that sit while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. 2

   Combine and knead the dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add 5 cups of flour, 1 tsp garlic salt, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese. Mix together and make a well in the center. Add one egg, 1/3 cup of oil, and the proofed yeast mixture. Stir together with the dough hook until the dough comes together. Knead for 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Grease and rise the dough: The dough will look very tacky and sticky. With greased hands, shape the dough into a ball, and oil the top and bowl well. Cover and allow the dough to rise until doubled (about 1 1/2-2 hours).

4. 4

   Shape dough into breadsticks: After the dough has risen, it will be more elastic and easier to handle. Flour a large pastry mat with 1/4 cup of flour and transfer the dough onto the floured surface. Evenly divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Then cut each piece into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then roll out into a 7-inch breadstick, using more flour if needed.

5. 5

   Arrange dough onto pans: Line two sheet pans with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Place the breadsticks into the prepared pans and allow them to rise for 20 minutes. (Preheat the oven to 400°F, 15 minutes into the rise time).

6. 6

   Bake the breadsticks: When the breadsticks have slightly risen, bake them at 400° F for 8-10 minutes. (the 7 or 8-minute mark if freezing).

7. 7

   Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and garlic salt, serve: Meanwhile, melt 8 Tbsp of salted butter. When the breadsticks are hot out of the oven, brush them with melted butter and evenly sprinkle with 2 tsps of garlic salt before serving. Serve in a bread basket lined with a kitchen towel.