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The aroma of freshly baked bread mixed with garlic butter - few things are more irresistible than warm Olive Garden-style breadsticks fresh from your own oven. After perfecting this copycat recipe through countless test batches, I've captured that perfect combination of soft, fluffy interior and buttery, garlicky exterior that makes these breadsticks so addictive.
Last Sunday, I served these alongside homemade pasta, and my family couldn't believe they weren't from the restaurant. The secret? Taking time with the double rise and brushing them with garlic butter while they're still hot.
Must-Have Ingredients
- Warm Water (105-110°F): The right temperature is key for activating yeast—too hot can kill it, while too cold won't allow proper rising.
- Active Dry Yeast: This ingredient is responsible for the perfect rise, giving your dough a light and airy texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast, ensuring an even rise and contributing to the soft, slightly sweet flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: The right balance of protein and starch creates the ideal chewiness in the finished breadsticks.
- Unsalted Butter (Softened): Adds richness to the dough, enhancing both flavor and texture.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors while balancing the sweetness and butteriness.
- Unsalted Butter (Melted): Brushed over the warm breadsticks to create a rich, golden finish.
- Garlic Powder: Gives that signature Olive Garden-style flavor, infusing the butter topping with an aromatic touch.
- Fine Salt: A final touch that complements the buttery topping and enhances overall flavor.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently to combine. Let stand 5-10 minutes until frothy. Mixture should be bubbly and smell yeasty.
- Create the Dough:
- In stand mixer bowl, combine flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Pour in activated yeast mixture. Knead with dough hook for 8-10 minutes. Dough should be smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Transfer dough to greased large bowl. Cover with damp kitchen towel. Place in warm spot away from drafts. Let rise 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Shape Breadsticks:
- Punch down risen dough gently. Divide into 12-14 equal portions. Roll each into 6-7 inch rope. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Leave 2 inches between each.
- Second Rise:
- Cover shaped breadsticks loosely. Let rise 20-30 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 400°F during this time. Breadsticks should look light and airy.
- Baking and Finishing:
- Bake 12-15 minutes until light golden. Meanwhile, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and salt. Brush hot breadsticks generously with garlic butter. Apply second coat after 2 minutes.
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Perfect Texture Tips
Achieving that signature Olive Garden texture requires attention to detail. The dough shouldn't be too sticky or too dry - it should feel smooth and elastic after kneading. I've found that letting the shaped breadsticks rise until they're noticeably puffy makes them extra soft and fluffy.
Temperature Matters
The water temperature is crucial for proper yeast activation. Too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won't activate it. Think warm bath water - if it's comfortable on your wrist, it's perfect for the yeast.
Make-Ahead Magic
You can make the dough ahead and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Just punch it down and let it come to room temperature before shaping. The flavors develop even more this way.
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These copycat Olive Garden breadsticks have become our family's favorite bread recipe. Whether you're serving them with pasta, soup, or just as a snack, they bring that restaurant magic right to your kitchen table. The combination of soft, fluffy bread and garlicky butter creates something truly special that makes any meal feel like a celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
- → How do I store leftover breadsticks?
- Store cooled breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → Why didn't my yeast foam up?
- If your yeast doesn't foam, it might be old or your water was too hot or cold. Use water at 110°F for best results.
- → Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry?
- Yes, you can use instant yeast and skip the activation step, just mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
- → How do I reheat the breadsticks?
- Wrap breadsticks in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warm.