Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe
There’s just something about the irresistible aroma and pillowy softness of restaurant breadsticks that makes every meal feel like a special occasion! This Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe delivers everything you love: warm, buttery sticks with the perfect chewy bite and that signature savory finish. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, soup, or just as a snack, this recipe brings the magic of your favorite Italian-American eatery straight to your kitchen—no reservations required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple pantry staples are all you need to recreate the classic flavor and texture of the Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe. Each ingredient has a special role, from creating a fluffy crumb to delivering that iconic golden-buttery finish!
- Warm water (1 cup, about 110°F): Water at the right temperature helps activate the yeast, which is key for a perfect rise.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): A touch of sweetness feeds the yeast and gives your breadsticks a subtle flavor boost.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet, 2 1/4 teaspoons): Yeast is what makes these breadsticks airy and tender.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups): The foundation for structure and softness—be sure to measure accurately for best results.
- Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Don’t skimp! Salt enhances flavor and balances the dough.
- Unsalted butter, softened (2 tablespoons): This makes the dough rich and tender.
- Unsalted butter, melted (3 tablespoons, for brushing): The key to that glossy, indulgent finish you crave.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds the classic savory punch to every bite.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, for topping): A final sprinkle that ties everything together.
How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by pouring the warm water into a large mixing bowl and stirring in the sugar until it dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a foamy, bubbly layer—this means your yeast is alive and ready to give your breadsticks their signature lift.
Step 2: Make the Dough
Add the flour, salt, and softened butter to the bowl with your activated yeast mixture. Using a sturdy spoon or a stand mixer, mix everything until a shaggy dough forms. Then, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes, or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and just slightly tacky. This is when the magic starts!
Step 3: First Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This slow rise is crucial for developing that light, fluffy texture you expect from the Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe.
Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks
Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7-inch rope and arrange them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each for spreading. Cover and let the shaped breadsticks rise for another 30 minutes—they’ll puff up beautifully and get ready for baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
While the breadsticks finish their second rise, preheat your oven to 400°F. Once ready, bake the breadsticks for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they turn lightly golden on top. Keep a close eye; you want them soft and just barely kissed with color, not deeply browned.
Step 6: Brush with Garlic Butter and Finish
As soon as they come out of the oven, mix your melted butter with the garlic powder and brush it generously over the warm breadsticks. Finish with a sprinkle of salt for that authentic Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe touch. Serve while still steaming—the aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!
How to Serve Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet impressive finish, you can sprinkle the warm breadsticks with a little grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of Italian seasoning just after brushing on the garlic butter. Fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Side Dishes
These breadsticks are a perfect companion for classic pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo, spaghetti with marinara, or lasagna. They’re also ideal with hearty soups or crisp salads—just like at the restaurant. Honestly, any meal feels more comforting with a basket of these alongside!
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family dinners, bundle a few breadsticks in napkins and tie with twine for individual servings, or arrange them upright in a bread basket for a rustic look. Dip them in warm marinara, pesto, or even alfredo sauce for an interactive appetizer everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), keep your breadsticks in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out.
Freezing
To make the Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe ahead, freeze the baked breadsticks once cooled completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months.
Reheating
To bring your breadsticks back to life, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes. Brush with a little extra melted butter if desired. This restores their softness and that just-baked flavor you crave.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! If you have instant yeast on hand, you can skip the activation step and add it directly with the dry ingredients. Your rise times might be a little faster, so keep an eye on the dough.
Why did my breadsticks turn out dense?
Dense breadsticks usually mean the dough didn’t rise enough or was overworked. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active, and don’t rush the rise times for the best, fluffiest results.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! After the first rise, cover the dough and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature, shape, and proceed with the second rise and baking as usual.
Is there a way to make these vegan?
Definitely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative, and you’ll still get that rich flavor and soft texture. These adjustments make the Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe perfect for everyone at your table.
Can I add cheese or herbs to the breadsticks?
Of course! It’s fun to get creative—mix a little shredded Parmesan or a pinch of Italian herbs into the melted butter before brushing, or sprinkle them on top for a delicious twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling a warm, buttery breadstick from the basket and savoring that first bite. With this Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe, you can enjoy all the comfort and flavor of dining out, right at home. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly they disappear!
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Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Recreate the beloved Olive Garden breadsticks at home with this easy copycat recipe. Soft, buttery, and seasoned with garlic and salt, these breadsticks are perfect as a comforting side or snack.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For Brushing and Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast on top. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and softened unsalted butter into the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop gluten for the perfect texture.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a 7-inch breadstick shape. Arrange the breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover the arranged breadsticks and allow them to rise again for 30 minutes until puffed.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12–14 minutes or until they turn lightly golden on top.
- Brush and Season: While the breadsticks are still warm, brush them generously with melted butter mixed with garlic powder, then sprinkle with salt to taste.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing in Italian seasoning or freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the melted butter before brushing.
- These breadsticks are best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven.
- Leftover breadsticks can be reheated in the oven to regain their softness and warmth.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
