Warm, fluffy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and herbs, perfect as a side for pasta or a cozy appetizer. These soft garlic breadsticks are easy to make at home and will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These breadsticks are incredibly soft on the inside with a slightly golden crust on the outside. The garlic butter gives a rich, savory flavor, and the herbs add a fresh, aromatic touch. They’re quick to prepare, great for family meals, and pair beautifully with Italian dishes like pasta, soups, or salads.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Directions
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a breadstick shape.
Place the breadsticks on a greased baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Cover and let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes for a second rise.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining melted butter with minced garlic and parsley.
Brush the breadsticks with half of the garlic butter mixture.
Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter. Serve warm.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 breadsticks
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including second rise)
Baking time: 15-18 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 50 minutes
Variations
Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top before baking for cheesy garlic breadsticks.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle spicy kick.
Use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Mix in chopped rosemary or thyme for different herb flavors.
Serve with a side of marinara or cheese dip for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, freeze baked breadsticks in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month.
To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Reduce the rising time slightly as instant yeast works faster.
Can I make gluten-free breadsticks?
Yes, but you’ll need a gluten-free flour blend and xanthan gum for structure. The texture may differ slightly.
How do I get the breadsticks extra soft?
Ensure you knead the dough until smooth and elastic and don’t overbake. Brushing with butter after baking also keeps them soft.
Can I add cheese inside the breadsticks?
Absolutely. Place small pieces of mozzarella inside the dough before rolling for cheesy-filled breadsticks.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute.
How long can I keep garlic breadsticks at room temperature?
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Beyond that, they may become dry.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake on separate trays to allow enough space for the breadsticks.
Can I bake these breadsticks without herbs?
Yes, you can skip the parsley or other herbs, but herbs add a nice flavor and aroma.
Can I brush the breadsticks with butter before baking only?
Yes, brushing before baking helps them brown nicely, but brushing after baking adds extra flavor and richness.
Conclusion
These soft garlic breadsticks are a must-try for anyone who loves warm, buttery, and aromatic bread. Easy to make and perfect for any meal, they’re sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. The combination of fluffy texture, garlic flavor, and fresh herbs creates a comforting and irresistible treat.
Soft, fluffy homemade garlic breadsticks brushed with rich garlic butter and fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or salads, these warm breadsticks are golden on the outside and tender on the inside.
Total Time:1 hour 50 minutes
Yield:12 breadsticks
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons melted butter, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a breadstick shape and place on a greased baking sheet.
Cover and let the breadsticks rest for 15–20 minutes for a second rise.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining melted butter with minced garlic and parsley.
Brush the breadsticks with half of the garlic butter mixture.
Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining garlic butter.
Serve warm.
Notes
Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted if needed.
Do not overbake to maintain a soft texture.
Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy variation.
Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat wrapped in foil at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes.
