Garlic Herb Breadsticks
Highlighted under: Creative Baking Recipes
I absolutely love making Garlic Herb Breadsticks from scratch. The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs fills my kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere. Every bite is a delightful experience, with a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, pillowy inside. Not only are they perfect as a side for pasta dishes, but they also make a great snack on their own. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade breadsticks with your loved ones.
When I first attempted to make these Garlic Herb Breadsticks, I was amazed at how simple the process was. The dough comes together quickly, and I love how using fresh herbs elevates the flavor to a whole new level. For best results, I recommend letting the dough rest for a bit, which allows the gluten to develop and creates that perfect soft texture.
What truly sets my breadsticks apart is the garlic butter glaze that I generously slather on right after baking. It adds an irresistible sheen and a burst of flavor. I always make extra to dip them in; it’s a game changer!
Why You Will Love These Breadsticks
- Savory garlic flavor combined with fresh herbs
- Perfectly stretchy, chewy texture that complements any dish
- Easy to make and perfect for gatherings or family dinners
Perfecting Your Dough
The key to achieving the ideal texture in your Garlic Herb Breadsticks lies in properly kneading the dough. As you knead, aim for that smooth, elastic quality which typically takes about 5 minutes on a lightly floured surface. If the dough sticks to your hands or the counter, sprinkle a little more flour as needed to prevent it from becoming overly wet. Remember, the goal is a soft yet firm dough that can stretch without tearing, resulting in that chewy texture loved by breadstick enthusiasts.
Once your dough has formed, giving it enough time to rise is crucial. While 30 minutes in a warm place is generally sufficient, you can let it rise longer for an even more pronounced flavor and airy texture. An ideal spot could be near a warm oven or in a sunny kitchen corner. You'll know it's ready when it has roughly doubled in size and has a slightly puffy appearance—this indicates the yeast is working its magic.
Shaping and Baking Tips
When shaping the breadsticks, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even baking; cutting the log into 12 equal sections is a great guide. If you want thicker breadsticks, feel free to adjust the sizes to your taste. After forming each stick, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup easier. Give them space to expand as they bake—crowding will lead to dough sticking together.
Baking at 400°F (200°C) will yield a beautifully golden-brown crust. Keep an eye on them around the 15-minute mark; an ideal breadstick will be golden at the edges and firm yet springy to the touch. If you prefer a crustier finish, you can briefly broil them for a minute at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning. The sound of a hollow tap on the bottom is a good indication they are done.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Garlic Herb Breadsticks:
For the Breadsticks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Garlic Butter Glaze
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp salt
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create tasty Garlic Herb Breadsticks:
Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy. Add the flour, salt, olive oil, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
Shape the Breadsticks
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a log. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a breadstick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Glaze
While the breadsticks bake, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt in a bowl.
Glaze and Serve
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and brush the garlic butter glaze generously over them. Serve warm.
Enjoy your homemade Garlic Herb Breadsticks right out of the oven!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some parmesan cheese or additional herbs on top before baking for added flavor.
Ingredient Insights
Using active dry yeast rather than instant yeast in this recipe enhances the flavor development, as it takes a bit longer to activate, allowing the dough to ferment and deepen. Make sure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C); too hot can kill the yeast, while too cool might not activate it effectively. By adding dried oregano and basil, the breadsticks take on an aromatic profile that complements the garlic beautifully.
For those who may opt for substitutions, gluten-free all-purpose flour is an excellent alternative for a gluten-free version. However, ensure that your flour blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to mimic the elasticity of regular flour.
Serving and Storing
These Garlic Herb Breadsticks are best enjoyed warm straight out of the oven, brushed with the garlic butter blend. Consider serving them alongside marinara sauce or a creamy dip for added flavor. They also pair beautifully with salads or pastas, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
If you have leftovers (which can be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked breadsticks. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, which will restore their delightful texture and warmth.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough before the rise. Just wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs, as they are less concentrated than dried ones.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes for the best texture.
→ Can I make these breadsticks without yeast?
While traditional breadsticks require yeast for rising, you can try making a baking powder version. However, the texture will differ.
Garlic Herb Breadsticks
I absolutely love making Garlic Herb Breadsticks from scratch. The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs fills my kitchen, creating an irresistible atmosphere. Every bite is a delightful experience, with a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, pillowy inside. Not only are they perfect as a side for pasta dishes, but they also make a great snack on their own. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade breadsticks with your loved ones.
Created by: Florence Keaton
Recipe Type: Creative Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 breadsticks
What You'll Need
For the Breadsticks
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
For the Garlic Butter Glaze
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 tsp salt
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy. Add the flour, salt, olive oil, oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a log. Cut the dough into 12 equal pieces and shape each piece into a breadstick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
While the breadsticks bake, combine melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt in a bowl.
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and brush the garlic butter glaze generously over them. Serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some parmesan cheese or additional herbs on top before baking for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 6g