Description
Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks are soft, warm, and loaded with melted mozzarella, garlic, and Italian herbs. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, these breadsticks are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish to pasta or salad. With a golden, bubbly cheese topping and a tender dough, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano and basil)
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the dough: Add all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until the ingredients start to combine into a dough. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes on a floured surface or in the bowl until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 20 minutes to double in size.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the risen dough to release air, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle shape. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add toppings: Brush the melted butter evenly over the surface of the dough. Sprinkle minced garlic, shredded mozzarella cheese, and dried Italian herbs evenly on top.
- Bake the breadsticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the breadsticks for 16-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice into individual sticks and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Make sure the water is around 110°F to activate the yeast properly; too hot or too cold water can kill or weaken the yeast.
- You can substitute mozzarella with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for extra flavor.
- For a crispier crust, bake a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid burning them.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried if available, but adjust quantities as needed.
- These breadsticks are best served warm but can be reheated in an oven or toaster oven later.
