Name: Garlic Breadsticks
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups (17½ oz / 497 g) all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; 1 ¾ cups (14 fl oz / 420 ml) lukewarm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¼ cup (2 oz / 57 g) salted butter, melted; 2 large cloves garlic, crushed; 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

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Garlic Breadsticks are the ultimate comfort carb—soft, buttery, and packed with savory flavor from fresh garlic and herbs. These golden, homemade breadsticks are crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside, brushed with a delicious garlic-parsley butter that makes them completely irresistible. Perfect for serving with pasta, soup, or as a snack all on their own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Garlic Breadsticks are everything a good breadstick should be—pillowy soft, perfectly seasoned, and infused with real garlic flavor. This recipe is easy to follow and yields bakery-style results, complete with a golden crust and soft, chewy center. Whether you’re pairing them with dinner or enjoying them as a standalone treat, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Garlic Breadsticks

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1½ teaspoons salt
1¾ cups lukewarm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
¼ cup salted butter, melted
2 large garlic cloves, crushed
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Directions

Make the Dough:

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
Add the lukewarm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix and knead on medium speed for 10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1½ hours.
Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 14 equal-sized balls.

Shape the Breadsticks:

On a floured surface, roll each ball into a 6-inch (15 cm) log.
Place each shaped dough log onto the prepared baking sheet.
Cover loosely with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Let rise for 40 minutes or until doubled in size.

Make the Garlic Butter:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, crushed garlic, and chopped parsley. Set aside.

Bake the Breadsticks:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Once the breadsticks have risen, brush them with half of the garlic butter.
Bake for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Remove from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter.
Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 14 breadsticks
Prep time: 45 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan over the top before baking.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.
Herb Blend: Mix in Italian seasoning or rosemary for more herby flavor.
Whole Wheat Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Dipping Ready: Serve with warm marinara, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
For longer storage, freeze breadsticks for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make these breadsticks without a stand mixer?

Yes. Mix the dough in a large bowl and knead by hand for about 10–12 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant?

Yes. If using active dry yeast, dissolve it in the lukewarm water with a pinch of sugar and let sit for 5–10 minutes before adding to the flour mixture.

How do I keep the breadsticks soft?

Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel after baking to keep them soft as they cool.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Let the dough rise, shape the breadsticks, and refrigerate overnight. Let them come to room temperature and proof before baking.

What’s the best flour to use?

All-purpose flour works best for soft, chewy breadsticks. Bread flour can also be used for a slightly chewier texture.

How do I make gluten-free breadsticks?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check yeast and other ingredients for gluten-free labeling. Texture may vary slightly.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just be sure to bake in batches or use multiple baking sheets.

Can I grill the breadsticks instead of baking?

You can, though texture will differ. Grill on low heat until golden and cooked through, turning occasionally.

What type of garlic is best?

Fresh garlic cloves give the best flavor, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch (about ½ teaspoon).

Can I make these vegan?

Yes. Use plant-based butter and ensure sugar is vegan-friendly.

Conclusion

These homemade Garlic Breadsticks are soft, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—from casual dinners to party appetizers. Brushed with a rich garlic-parsley butter, they offer bakery-quality results with just a few pantry staples. Once you try them warm and fresh out of the oven, they’ll become a go-to side dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Garlic Breadsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients