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Tender Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe

Olive Garden breadsticks copycat recipe - featured image

Easy homemade breadsticks that melt in your mouth, replicating the soft, buttery texture and garlicky flavor of Olive Garden’s famous breadsticks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one 7g packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C) with 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
  2. Mix the dough: Add 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 tablespoons melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until combined. If too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2 ounces / 56 grams each). Roll each piece into a 6-inch long stick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
  6. Second rise: Cover the breadsticks loosely with a towel and let rise for another 20-30 minutes until puffy. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  7. Bake: Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes until golden on top. The bottoms should be firm but not hard.
  8. Prepare garlic butter topping: While baking, mix 3 tablespoons melted butter with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, and ½ teaspoon salt.
  9. Brush and serve: As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter. Serve warm.

Notes

Use warm water at about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Do not skip the two rises for best texture. Brush garlic butter immediately after baking for best absorption. Use parchment paper to keep bottoms soft. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free baking mix. For dairy-free, use vegan butter or olive oil. Brushing garlic butter twice enhances shine and softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Olive Garden breadsticks, copycat recipe, homemade breadsticks, garlic butter breadsticks, soft breadsticks, easy breadsticks