Description
These Garlic Cheese Breadsticks are soft, warm, and loaded with a savory garlic butter glaze and melted cheese atop a tender, fluffy dough. Perfect as a side for pasta dishes, soups, or to enjoy on their own as a cheesy, garlicky treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
Garlic Butter Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the olive oil and the activated yeast mixture. Stir to combine until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6-7 minutes.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and allow it to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Prepare Topping: While the dough is rising, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, dried parsley, and salt to make the garlic butter mixture.
- Shape Breadsticks: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 12×9 inches. Transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Apply Garlic Butter: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the entire surface of the dough.
- Add Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top of the garlic buttered dough.
- Second Rise: Let the dough rest for an additional 15-20 minutes to puff up slightly.
- Bake Breadsticks: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the dough is golden brown around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Slice into individual sticks and serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning before baking.
- You can substitute part of the mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a different cheese flavor.
- Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Ensure your water is not too hot when activating yeast to avoid killing it; ideally 105-115°F (40-46°C) is perfect.
