Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe
Soft, fluffy, and brushed with buttery garlic topping — these homemade Olive Garden–style breadsticks taste just like the restaurant favorite. Perfect alongside pasta, soups, or simply dipped in marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water about 110°F / 45°C
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for brushing after baking
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Make Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, softened butter, and salt. Add yeast mixture; stir until dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer to floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
- Shape Breadsticks: Punch down, divide into 12 pieces, roll into 7–8 inch ropes. Place on lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until puffed.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake 12–14 minutes until golden.
- Topping: Brush warm breadsticks with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and salt.
Notes
Dairy-free: use vegan butter or olive oil.
Gluten-free: substitute a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.
Healthier: replace half the flour with whole wheat (slightly denser texture).
Make Ahead: Shape, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let rest at room temp 30 minutes before baking.
✨ Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on the buttery garlic topping — it’s what makes them truly irresistible!