Crunchy Garlic Herb Breadsticks

There's something inherently delightful about the aroma of freshly baked breadsticks wafting through your kitchen. The allure of homemade breadsticks is universal, evoking cozy nights in with family, gatherings with friends, or even just a comforting meal for one. These Crunchy Garlic Herb Breadsticks, in particular, elevate the classic side dish to new heights, offering a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity.

Indulge in the comforting aroma of homemade Crunchy Garlic Herb Breadsticks with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft within, these breadsticks are a delightful accompaniment to any meal. Discover essential techniques for making dough from all-purpose flour, yeast, and fresh herbs, then learn creative shaping ideas to impress your guests. Make these mouthwatering breadsticks a staple in your kitchen and elevate every dining experience.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon instant yeast

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)

2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Gradually add the warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil, stirring until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.

Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.

First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Breadsticks:

Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin stick about 8-10 inches in length. Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 1 inch apart.

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Garlic Herb Topping:

In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil together. Brush this mixture generously over each breadstick. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese atop the sticks for added flavor.

Second Rise:

Cover the shaped breadsticks with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes, or until they puff up slightly.

Bake the Breadsticks:

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks turn golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Final Touch:

Once out of the oven, brush the breadsticks with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 12 breadsticks