5 Easy Breadstick Recipes for Every Occasion

Everyone loves breadsticks, those delectable, crunchy, or sometimes soft and fluffy accompaniments that elevate any meal. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a lavish dinner, or just want something special for your family dinner, breadsticks are a versatile choice. In this post, we'll explore five easy breadstick recipes perfect for every occasion, from classic garlic breadsticks to innovative and trendy varieties like Parmesan and Rosemary or even a vegan option. Get ready to impress your guests or treat yourself with these irresistible recipes.

Garlic Butter Breadsticks

Starting with a classic, garlic butter breadsticks are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. Here’s how you can bake these in your kitchen:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¹⁄₄ tsp) of active dry yeast
• 1 ¹⁄₄ cups warm water
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₄ cup melted butter
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine yeast, sugar, and warm water in a mixing bowl, let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Add salt, olive oil, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 5-8 minutes until smooth.
5. Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl for 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal parts.
7. Roll each piece into a long, thin stick, place on a baking sheet.
8. Let the breadsticks rise for another 15 minutes.
9. Brush with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese upon removal from the oven.

💡 Note: For a softer texture, cover the baking sheet with a damp cloth while the breadsticks rise for the second time.

Parmesan and Rosemary Breadsticks

These breadsticks bring a touch of elegance with their rich flavors, making them perfect for a more upscale dining experience.

• 2 ¹⁄₂ cups bread flour
• 1 packet (2 ¹⁄₄ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)

Steps:

1. Mix flour, yeast, salt, rosemary, and half of the Parmesan in a bowl.
2. Add warm water and olive oil, stirring until dough comes together.
3. Knead on a floured surface until smooth, about 10 minutes.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Divide dough into 16 pieces, roll into sticks, and place on a baking sheet.
7. Let rise for 20 minutes, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle remaining Parmesan.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until they’re golden brown.

💡 Note: Keep an eye on the breadsticks during the last few minutes to ensure the cheese doesn't burn.

Vegan Breadsticks

Vegan breadsticks offer all the taste and texture you’d expect from traditional breadsticks, but with entirely plant-based ingredients. Ideal for vegan gatherings or anyone looking to reduce their animal product consumption.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water (as egg substitute)
• Optional: nutritional yeast, garlic powder, or herbs for topping

Steps:

1. In a small bowl, mix flaxseed with water and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
2. In a larger bowl, combine yeast, sugar, and warm water, let it become frothy.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and the flaxseed mixture to the yeast.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until dough forms.
5. Knead for about 10 minutes, then let the dough rise for 1 hour.
6. Roll out and cut into breadstick shapes, let rise for another 30 minutes.
7. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with desired toppings.
8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Whole Wheat and Flaxseed Breadsticks

These breadsticks are both nutritious and delicious, perfect for those who appreciate a hearty, flavorful bite.

• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups whole wheat flour
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups bread flour
• 1 tbsp active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Coarse sea salt for topping

Steps:

1. Combine flours, yeast, and salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Add warm water, honey, and olive oil, mix until dough forms.
3. Knead dough until smooth, around 8 minutes.
4. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Divide into 12-15 portions, shape into sticks, and let rise for 30 minutes.
6. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden.

Spicy Cheese Breadsticks

Turn up the heat with these spicy cheese breadsticks, a perfect addition to any pizza night or party spread.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups shredded sharp cheddar
• 1-2 tbsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 egg, beaten

Steps:

1. Mix yeast, sugar, and warm water, let froth.
2. Add flour, salt, olive oil, and cheese to the yeast mixture.
3. Knead for 10 minutes, adding red pepper flakes, let rise for 1 hour.
4. Roll out, cut into sticks, let rise again for 20 minutes.
5. Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle with extra cheese and flakes.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes.

💡 Note: Customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes.

The journey into making breadsticks has shown us that simplicity can yield profound flavors. Whether it's the classic garlic butter breadsticks, the aromatic Parmesan and Rosemary, the inclusive vegan variety, the nutritious whole wheat, or the fiery cheese sticks, there's a breadstick for every palate and occasion. These easy recipes not only cater to various dietary needs but also invite creativity in your kitchen, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and presentations. So, next time you're looking for a delightful addition to your meal or a fun baking project, remember these breadstick recipes, and indulge in the warm, comforting goodness they bring.

Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?

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Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Prepare the dough, let it rise, and then shape it into breadsticks. At this point, you can refrigerate or freeze the breadsticks. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze in an airtight container. Thaw and let rise before baking when ready to serve.

How do I keep breadsticks fresh?

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Store breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer bag. Reheat in an oven to maintain crispness, not in a microwave, which will make them soggy.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

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Yes, instant yeast can be used in the same quantities as active dry yeast. You can skip the proofing step since instant yeast doesn’t need to be dissolved in water first.

What can I substitute for the vegan breadsticks if I don’t have flaxseed?

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You can use 1 tablespoon of chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water or ¹⁄₄ cup of applesauce as an egg substitute.

Can I add other toppings to my breadsticks?

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Absolutely! Get creative with toppings like sesame seeds, poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even finely chopped herbs like parsley or basil before baking.