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Fluffy Olive Garden Breadsticks

As seen in Master the Art of Traditional Bread Making.

These breadsticks are a perfect at-home copy of Olive Garden’s iconic version. The dough is simple to make and results in incredibly soft, fluffy breadsticks. Topped with savory garlic butter, they taste just like the real deal. Although the total time is about an hour (mostly waiting for the dough to rise), you’ll find the process almost completely hands-off. The recipe makes 16 sticks, but feel free to make a smaller batch or use pre-made frozen dough for convenience. They’re best served fresh and warm, with an irresistible crispy butter coating on the outside.
Chef with a smile, ready to cook and serve.
Created by Sandra
Fresh as of Mon, 24 Feb 2025 19:51:10 GMT
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Fluffy Homemade Breadsticks Save Recipe
Fluffy Homemade Breadsticks | yummygusto.com

Nothing beats the aroma and taste of homemade Italian breadsticks fresh from the oven. With a perfectly soft, pillowy interior and light crisp exterior, these breadsticks match the beloved Olive Garden version in both texture and flavor. The rich garlic butter coating creates that signature taste that keeps everyone reaching for more.

Through extensive testing of different flours and techniques, this recipe yields consistently perfect results. The breadsticks have become a staple at family gatherings, where they never last long.

Key Ingredients

  • Active dry yeast: Fresh yeast ensures proper rising and flavor development
  • All-purpose flour: Standard unbleached flour with 10-12% protein content works best
  • Butter: High-quality salted butter enriches the dough
  • Sugar: Regular granulated sugar feeds yeast activity
  • Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt balances flavors
  • Garlic powder: Provides consistent flavor throughout baking
  • Oregano: Mediterranean or Turkish varieties add authentic taste

Step-by-Step Method

Prepare Yeast:
Combine 110°F water with yeast in glass bowl. Let stand until foamy. Measure flour accurately using spoon-and-level method.
Mix Dough:
In stand mixer, blend room temperature butter with sugar and salt. Gradually incorporate flour until smooth dough forms.
First Rise:
Place in oiled bowl, cover with damp cloth, let rise in warm spot until doubled.
Shape:
On floured surface, roll portions into even ropes using gentle outward pressure from center.
Second Rise:
Arrange on parchment-lined sheets, cover, let rise until puffy.
Finish:
Brush with garlic butter before and after baking for layered flavor.
Tasty Olive Garden Bread Sticks Save Recipe
Tasty Olive Garden Bread Sticks | yummygusto.com

Traditional Italian bread making requires patience and care. Taking time with each step ensures these breadsticks achieve that perfect balance of texture and taste that makes them irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these warm breadsticks alongside pasta dishes, hearty soups, or fresh salads. They're especially good for soaking up rich sauces, from classic marinara to creamy alfredo.

Variations

Experiment with roasted garlic in the dough, add seeds or seasonings on top, or incorporate herbs into the butter coating. For a healthier option, substitute some whole wheat flour while maintaining the tender crumb.

Storage Tips

Keep in paper bags at room temperature for 2 days. Refresh in a 350°F oven with light water misting. Shaped unbaked breadsticks freeze well for up to 3 months.

Close-up Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe Save Recipe
Close-up Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe | yummygusto.com

These breadsticks consistently bring warmth and comfort to any meal. The aroma of fresh-baked bread has a way of gathering people around the table, creating memorable moments with every batch.

Recipe Tips & Help

→ Is it okay to freeze these breadsticks?
Absolutely! You can freeze them after baking for up to three months. Just let them thaw completely and reheat in the oven when ready.
→ What’s the proper way to keep leftover breadsticks?
Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature for no more than two days. Before eating, pop them in the oven or microwave for a quick warm-up.
→ Why didn’t my dough rise like it should?
It could be that the yeast wasn’t active anymore or the water temperature wasn’t right. Make sure to use warm water (110-115°F) and fresh yeast.
→ Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yep! Knead the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it reach room temperature before shaping it into breadsticks.
→ How should I reheat these breadsticks to keep them soft?
The best way is to wrap them in foil and heat them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave a single breadstick for 15-20 seconds.

Fluffy Olive Garden Breadsticks

Discover how to bake your own buttery Olive Garden breadsticks at home—soft, airy, and finished with a perfectly seasoned garlic butter glaze.

Preparation Time
45 Mins
Cooking Time
15 Mins
Total Time
60 Mins
Created by: Sandra

Dish Type: Rustic Breads

Skill Level: Medium

Style: Italian

Makes: 16 Serves (16 breadsticks)

Dietary Notes: Meat-Free

What You'll Need

→ Dough

01 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
02 2 1/4 teaspoons of dry-active yeast
03 4 1/4 cups of everyday flour
04 1 1/2 teaspoons fine salt
05 2 tablespoons sugar
06 2 tablespoons of softened butter

→ Topping

07 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
08 1/2 teaspoon of salt
09 1/2 teaspoon oregano
10 3 tablespoons melted butter

Method

01

Stir yeast into 1/4 cup of warm water in a bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes, until you see it bubbling up.

02

Put sugar, salt, butter, and 4 cups of flour into a stand mixer bowl. Pour in the yeast mixture and the rest of the water. Mix it all together until it forms a tacky dough.

03

Toss in another 1/4 cup of flour. Keep mixing until your dough feels smooth and soft to the touch.

04

Split the dough into two. Roll each piece into a 12-inch log. Cut each log into 8 and shape those pieces into 7-inch sticks.

05

Place the breadsticks on a tray lined with parchment, leaving about 1 to 1.5 inches of space between. Throw a cloth over the tray and let them rise for 45 minutes somewhere warm.

06

Crank up the oven to 400°F. Brush half the melted butter mixture over the risen breadsticks.

07

Pop the tray into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Take them out when they’re lightly golden.

08

As soon as they’re out of the oven, give the warm breadsticks a coat of the remaining butter mixture.

Cook's Tips

  1. This recipe makes 16 breadsticks, perfect for serving a large group. For fewer, halve the recipe.
  2. Want a quick version? Use frozen dough! A loaf makes 8 breadsticks. Frozen roll dough works too, though they’ll be a bit smaller.

Kitchen Equipment

  • Cups for measuring
  • Spoons for measuring
  • Baking tray

Allergen Guide

Check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your doctor.
  • This has dairy (butter)
  • It contains gluten (flour)

Nutrition Per Serving

Values are approximate and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: 164
  • Fat Content: 4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein: 4 g