Craving those soft, garlicky Olive Garden breadsticks? I’ve got you covered with a super easy copycat recipe that’s even better than the original. Whip up these fluffy, buttery delights in your own kitchen and watch them disappear in no time – they’re that good.
How to make Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks
Indulge in the warm, garlicky bliss of homemade Olive Garden breadsticks with this simple and foolproof recipe.
Directions:
- Proof the Yeast: Dissolve active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm water. Let it sit until frothy, about 10 minutes.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the proofed yeast mixture with all-purpose flour, a bit more sugar, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough and divide it into individual portions. Roll each portion into a rope and place them on a baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped breadsticks and let them rise again until puffy, about 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat your oven and bake the breadsticks until they are golden brown, typically around 11-13 minutes.
- Garlic Butter Topping: While the breadsticks are still warm, brush them generously with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy these soft, aromatic breadsticks fresh out of the oven for the best experience.
Ingredients
All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure of the breadsticks, flour gives them their body and texture.
Active Dry Yeast: Acts as a leavening agent, causing the dough to rise and become light and fluffy.
Granulated Sugar: A small amount is used to slightly sweeten the dough and to help activate the yeast.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the breadsticks and balances the sweetness.
Vegetable or Olive Oil: Adds moisture to the dough, contributing to the soft texture of the breadsticks.
Warm Water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
Butter: Used for brushing on the finished breadsticks, adding a rich, buttery flavor and a golden sheen.
Garlic Powder: Sprinkled on top for that signature garlic flavor that makes these breadsticks irresistible.
Olive Garden Breadsticks
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy12
servings25
minutes11
minutes2
hours30
minutesEnjoy the authentic taste of Olive Garden with these homemade, fluffy, and garlicky breadsticks, perfect for any Italian meal or as a delicious snack on their own.
Ingredients
1 cup 1 + 2 Tbsp warm water (110 – 115 degrees)
1 1/4 tsp 1 1/4 active dry yeast
2 Tbsp 2 granulated sugar, divided
3 3 – 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (scoop and level to measure)
1 3/4 tsp 1 3/4 salt
3 Tbsp 3 vegetable oil or olive oil
Butter (for brushing)
Garlic powder (mixed with salt for topping)
Directions
- Proof the Yeast:
- In a mixer bowl, whisk together 1 cup + 2 Tbsp warm water, 1 1/4 tsp active dry yeast, and 1/2 tsp of the granulated sugar. Let it rest for 10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dough:
- Add the remaining granulated sugar (1 Tbsp + 2 1/2 tsp), 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 3/4 tsp salt, and 3 Tbsp vegetable or olive oil to the yeast mixture. Blend with a paddle attachment until combined.
- Knead the Dough:
- Switch to a dough hook attachment. Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups flour. Knead on low speed, adding up to 1/4 cup more flour if needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Shape Breadsticks:
- Punch down the risen dough. Divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 9-inch rope on a lightly floured surface and place on parchment paper-lined baking sheets.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the breadsticks and let them rise again for 1 hour. During the last 10 minutes, preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Bake:
- Bake the breadsticks for 11-13 minutes until golden.
- Garlic Butter Topping:
- Mix 1/4 tsp salt with garlic powder. Brush the hot breadsticks with butter and immediately sprinkle with the garlic salt mixture.
- Serve Warm:
- Enjoy the breadsticks fresh out of the oven for the best taste.
Notes
- The most important tip is to use fresh yeast; if it doesn’t bubble up in the proofing stage, it’s time to start over with a new batch.
- Achieving that perfect golden color is all about baking them just right – watch them closely in the oven to avoid over or under-baking.
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Tips & Tricks
- Yeast Proofing is Crucial: Ensure your yeast is active by proofing it in warm water with a bit of sugar. If it doesn’t bubble and become frothy, the yeast is inactive, and you’ll need to start over with a new batch.
- Flour Measurements Matter: When measuring the flour, be precise. Too much flour can make the breadsticks dense and hard. I recommend using the scoop and level method for accuracy.
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but should pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be cautious not to add too much.
- Adequate Rising Time: Allow enough time for the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This usually takes about 1 1/2 hours. A warm, draft-free environment speeds up the rising process.
- Baking and Topping: Bake the breadsticks until they are just golden. Overbaking can dry them out. Immediately after baking, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with a mix of garlic powder and salt for that classic Olive Garden flavor.
Variations
One of the joys of this recipe is how adaptable it is. For a cheesy variation, I sometimes sprinkle grated Parmesan or Asiago cheese on top before baking, which adds a delightful savory twist. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, transforming them into cinnamon sugar breadsticks is a fantastic option. They make for a great dessert or a special treat.
Serving and Storage
These breadsticks are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They’re a hit with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or even a simple olive oil dip. Serving them warm is the way to go for the best experience. For storage, I wrap any leftovers in foil and reheat them in the oven, which helps retain their freshness and texture.
They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat the breadsticks directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or thaw them first at room temperature or in the refrigerator. This method ensures you always have delicious, fresh-tasting breadsticks at your fingertips.
Nutritional Information
While indulging in these breadsticks is a treat, it’s good to keep an eye on portion sizes, especially for those watching their calorie intake. Enjoying them in moderation is key to a balanced diet.
Can Breadsticks be Frozen?
Yes, breadsticks can be frozen, and it’s a great way to preserve them for later use. After baking and cooling the breadsticks, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Other Olive Garden Recipes
Olive Garden Minestrone Soup
This Olive Garden minestrone soup is a very easy recipe to make which really hits the spot during the colder seasons.
Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana Soup
This Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana soup is an incredibly easy soup to make that is perfect during any time of the year, for any occasion.
Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup Recipe
You are absolutely going to love this Olive Garden chicken gnocchi soup recipe we have for you. Only takes 15 minutes to prep and it will provide your family with multiple servings.
Conclusion
To sum it up, making Olive Garden-style breadsticks isn’t too hard if you keep a few key things in mind. Make sure your yeast is good to go, measure your flour right, and give the dough enough time to puff up. When baking, watch them closely so they don’t get too crispy.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be whipping up amazing breadsticks that taste just like they’re fresh from Olive Garden. They’re perfect for dipping, sharing, or just enjoying on their own.
