Garlic Herb Breadsticks

Name: Garlic Herb Breadsticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Melted butter for brushing

Highlighted under: Butter, Sugar & Flour

I absolutely love making these Garlic Herb Breadsticks whenever I have friends or family over for dinner. The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with garlic and herbs fills my kitchen, making it feel warm and inviting. These breadsticks not only complement any meal, but they are incredibly easy to prepare. With the addition of simple ingredients, I can create a delectable side that everyone adores. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a staple for every gathering!

Created by

Rosie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:09:36.303Z

Making Garlic Herb Breadsticks has become one of my favorite kitchen activities. I remember the first time I tried this recipe, the combination of buttery garlic and fresh herbs was simply irresistible. Each bite is soft and comforting, perfect for any occasion.

I've learned that letting the dough rise properly is key to achieving that perfect texture. A quick tip is to cover the dough with a damp cloth as it rises—this keeps it moist and helps it to expand beautifully. Your guests will be coming back for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easily customized with your favorite herbs and spices
Perfectly chewy on the outside and fluffy on the inside
Ideal for soaking up sauces or enjoying on their own

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these Garlic Herb Breadsticks is a key factor in achieving the perfect texture. When mixing the ingredients, make sure your water is warm, but not hot—ideally between 100°F to 110°F. This temperature activates the yeast without killing it. After combining everything, the dough should pull away from the bowl and feel slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add a bit more warm water; if it's too sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour until you reach the right consistency.

Kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives the breadsticks their chewy exterior. As you knead, don’t rush the process; take about 5 minutes to push and fold the dough. It should become smooth and elastic. A trick to check your kneading is the windowpane test: stretch a small piece of dough; if it forms a translucent membrane without tearing, you’re good to go.

Baking to Perfection

When shaping the breadsticks, consistency in size will help ensure even baking. Aim for each piece to be about 6-8 inches long and uniform in thickness. This way, they will all bake evenly. Once on the baking sheet, allow the breadsticks a second rise, covered with a towel, for about 10-15 minutes. This helps achieve a lighter texture.

Baking at the right temperature is pivotal for creating the delicious golden brown color characteristic of breadsticks. After brushing them with melted butter and adding Parmesan, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges—they should be golden and crisp while the centers are soft and fluffy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Garlic Herb Breadsticks

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Melted butter for brushing

Make sure everything is fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to bake your breadsticks:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Then, mix in the flour, salt, olive oil, minced garlic, and dried herbs until a dough forms.

Knead and Let Rise

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 20 minutes.

Shape the Breadsticks

After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope shape and place them on a greased baking sheet. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bake and Serve

Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked breadsticks warm for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to the dough mixture. Serve with marinara or garlic butter for dipping.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these breadsticks vegan, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. In place of the grated Parmesan cheese, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor while keeping it dairy-free. For an added twist, consider infusing your olive oil with herbs or spices before adding it to the dough for extra flavor.

For those with gluten sensitivities, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or similar to help mimic the texture of the gluten. However, note that your breadsticks may not rise quite as much, so they will have a slightly different texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough ahead of time! After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bring the dough to room temperature, then shape and bake as directed. This is a fantastic option for busy gatherings where you want fresh breadsticks without last-minute fuss.

If you have any leftover breadsticks, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To revive them, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispness. Alternatively, you can freeze the breadsticks after baking. Wrap them well in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw and reheat in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

→ How do I store leftover breadsticks?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain their original texture.

→ Can I freeze the breadsticks?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the breadsticks tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

→ What can I serve with these breadsticks?

These breadsticks pair wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, or just a simple marinara dipping sauce.