If you're a fan of Pizza Hut's breadsticks, get ready to fall in love with our homemade version. These soft and buttery Breadsticks are perfect for dipping into soups or sauces or simply enjoying on their own as a tasty snack. With our easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of Pizza Hut right in your kitchen. The wonderful smell of these golden-baked breadsticks will fill your home, and the taste will leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the satisfaction of homemade breadsticks that are sure to become a family favorite!
What are Breadsticks?
Breadsticks are a bread-based snack or side dish characterized by its soft and chewy texture. They are typically made from a dough similar to that used for making bread or pizza dough. The dough is shaped into thin, elongated sticks and then baked until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside.
Soft breadsticks are often seasoned with various toppings or herbs, such as garlic, sesame seeds, or cheese, to enhance their flavor. They can be served as an appetizer, accompaniment to soups or salads, or enjoyed on their own as a snack.
About This Breadsticks Recipe:
- Taste: The taste of these breadsticks is savory and satisfying, with a hint of olive oil and a touch of salt. The addition of the herb butter mixture adds a burst of flavor with garlic, oregano, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
- Texture: These breadsticks have a soft and fluffy interior. The proper kneading and rising of the dough result in a light and airy crumb. The exterior is slightly crispy, giving a pleasant contrast to the softness inside.
- Method: In this method, we begin by combining flour, sugar, and yeast in a mixer and dissolving salt in warm water. This ensures proper activation of the yeast and even distribution of ingredients. The dough is mixed for 7 to 10 minutes, developing gluten and resulting in a smooth and elastic texture. After rising, the dough is shaped into breadsticks and brushed with the herb butter mixture. Baking at a high temperature creates a golden brown crust. This method ensures flavorful breadsticks with a light and airy interior and a crispy exterior.
Breadsticks Ingredients
Note: The full ingredients list is provided in the recipe card below.
For the Breadsticks:
- All-Purpose Flour/Bread Flour: Provides structure and texture to the breadsticks.
- Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps in the fermentation process, contributing to the dough's rise.
- Instant Dry Yeast: Acts as a leavening agent, causing the dough to rise.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the flavor of the breadsticks.
- Warm Water: Activates the yeast and helps in dough formation.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds moisture to the dough, contributes to the texture, and enhances the flavor.
For the Herb & Parmesan Mixture:
- Butter: Provides richness and flavor.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the overall taste.
- Garlic: Adds a savory and aromatic flavor.
- Dried Parsley: Adds herbaceous notes and visual appeal.
- Dried Oregano: Contributes to the herbaceous flavor profile.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty and savory taste.
Tools You'll Need
- Stand mixer
- Glass liquid measuring cup
- Measuring cups for dry ingredients
- Measuring spoons
- Digital thermometer
- Large bowl for rising
- Clean dish towel or plastic wrap
- 13 x18 sheet pan
- Pastry brush
- Cooling Rack
How to Make Breadsticks
Note: The full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
Combine the flour, sugar, and yeast in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment. Add the warm water, oil, and salt and mix on low speed for 2 minutes. Mix on Medium speed for about 32 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
Turn the dough onto a highly floured counter, sprinkle the top with flour, and knead briefly to form a smooth ball, about 30 seconds. Transfer the dough to a grease large bowl and turn to coat. Cover with plastic and let the dough rise at room temperature until it doubled in size, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
On a lightly greased countertop, pat the dough into a long rectangle, about 13 inches by 18 inches. Cut the dough into 1-inch-wide sticks with a pizza cutter. Place the breadsticks about ½ inch apart on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Place the dough in a warm place until it has doubled, about 30 minutes. While the dough rises a second time, preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. and make the Garlic and Parmesan mixture.
In a small microwave-safe bowl, place the butter. Microwave it for about 1 minute or until completely melted. In a separate small bowl, combine the parmesan cheese, granulated garlic, dried oregano, dried parsley, and kosher salt.
Using a pastry brush, brush the dough with melted butter. Sprinkle the dough with garlic and parmesan mixture. Bake the breadsticks until it is puffed and golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes.
Substitutions
- Flour: I use bread flour in this recipe, but you can use all-purpose flour.
- Yeast: Instead of instant dry yeast, use rapid-rise, fast-acting.
- Granulated sugar: Substitute honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.
- Kosher salt: You can substitute sea salt or table salt. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Other oils such as vegetables, canola, or melted butter can be used as alternatives. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the breadsticks.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Add a layer of shredded cheese on top of the breadsticks before baking to create a cheesy, gooey topping.
- Garlic Knots: Tie the dough into knots before baking and brush with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and parsley for a flavorful twist on classic breadsticks.
- Pizza Breadsticks: Top the breadsticks with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings (such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives) before baking for a delicious pizza-inspired snack.
- Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist on traditional breadsticks.
- Sweet Cinnamon Breadsticks: Replace the savory toppings with a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter for a sweet and delicious dessert.
How to Serve
- As an appetizer: Serve the breadsticks as an appetizer with a side of marinara sauce, pesto, or another dip of your choice.
- With soup or salad: Breadsticks pair well with a bowl of soup or a fresh garden salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- As a side dish: Serve the breadsticks alongside your favorite pasta dish or roasted meat for a delicious and comforting side dish.
- With cheese and charcuterie: Breadsticks make a great addition to a cheese and charcuterie board, providing a crunchy and savory complement to the rich and creamy flavors of the cheeses and meats.
- On their own: Enjoy the breadsticks as a snack or light meal, perhaps accompanied by a glass of wine or a cold beer.
How to Store & Re-Heat
To store: Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To reheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes or until heated. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds per breadstick.
Make-Ahead
To make the breadsticks ahead of time, follow the recipe instructions up until the point of baking. After cutting the dough into strips and placing them on the baking sheet, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The next day, remove the baking sheet from the refrigerator and let the breadsticks sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to remove the chill.
Then, brush them with the oil mixture and sprinkle them with parmesan cheese. Let the breadsticks rise in a warm place for 30-60 minutes, or until doubled in size, before baking as directed.
How to Freeze
Baked Breadsticks can be frozen for up to 3 months; allow the bread to cool completely before wrapping it in a double layer of plastic wrap, followed by another double layer of aluminum foil. Then, place it in an airtight freezer ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months: Thaw at room temperature for at least 2 to 3 hours, then warm it up in a 300 F oven for 5 minutes.
Tips For Making the Best Breadsticks
- Use a thermometer to check the water temperature: The water used in the recipe should be warm but not too hot, as hot water can kill the yeast. Aim for a temperature between 100-110°F (37-43°C) for the best results.
- Knead the dough thoroughly: Kneading it for 7-10 minutes (or until smooth and elastic) is important for developing gluten, giving the breadsticks their structure and texture.
- Let the dough rise properly: Letting it rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size is important for ensuring the breadsticks are light and fluffy.
- Brush the breadsticks with oil or butter: Brushing the breadsticks with a mixture of oil or butter, garlic, and herbs before baking adds flavor and helps the tops brown evenly.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese: Sprinkling the breadsticks with parmesan cheese before baking adds a delicious, salty flavor to the breadsticks.
- Don't over-bake: Keep an eye on the breadsticks in the oven, as they can go from golden brown to burnt very quickly. Remove them from the oven when they are golden brown and fully cooked.
FAQ
Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour to make the breadsticks?
Yes, you can use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour to make the breadsticks. Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which helps create a chewier texture in the breadsticks.
Can I freeze the breadstick dough?
You can freeze the breadstick dough for up to 3 months. To freeze the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
You can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs in this recipe. Remember that fresh herbs are more delicate in flavor, so you may need to use more of them to get the same level of flavor as dried herbs.
Can I make the breadsticks ahead of time and reheat them?
You can make the breadsticks ahead of time and reheat them before serving. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or until heated.
Can I make gluten-free breadsticks?
You can make gluten-free breadsticks using a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose or bread flour. Be sure to choose a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help hold the breadsticks together.
Can I make the breadsticks without using dairy?
You can make dairy-free breadsticks by using a dairy-free butter substitute and omitting the parmesan cheese from the topping. You can substitute olive oil for the butter in the dough and topping.
Can I add other toppings to the breadsticks?
You can customize the toppings on the breadsticks to your liking. Add chopped fresh herbs, grated cheese, or minced garlic to the topping mixture, or experiment with different seasonings like paprika or cumin.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of parmesan?
You can use a different type of cheese instead of parmesan in the topping. Try a blend of shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for a cheesy breadstick topping.
Related Recipes:
Recipe
Easy Breadsticks
Tools
Ingredients
- 625 g (5 cups) all-purpose flour or bread flour, spooned into the measuring cup and leveled off with a knife
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1-¾ cup warm water , (110°F to 115 °F)
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil , plus more for oiling the bowl
For Herb Butter:
- ½ cup butter , melted
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 6 large garlic ,finely minced or 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese , divided
Instructions
- In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a dough hook, add the flour, sugar, and yeast; turn the mixer on low to combine. Dissolve salt in the remaining 1-¾ cup of warm water and add it to the mixture. Pour in ½ cup olive oil.
- When the dough starts to come together, increase the speed to medium. Stop the machine periodically to scrape the dough off the hook. Mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 7 to 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, turn to coat the entire dough with oil, then fold over itself a few times to form into a round ball. Tightly cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, 1 hour.
- On a lightly greased countertop, pat the dough into a long rectangle, about 13-inches by 18- inches or so. Cut the dough every 1-inch into strips with a pizza cutter. Place the breadsticks about ½ inch apart on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, brush them with half of the oil mixture and lightly sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese.
- Place the dough in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 35 to 1 hour. While the dough rises a second time, preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Bake the breadsticks until it is puffed and golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them with the remaining oil mixture and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
- How to Make the Herb Butter
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a medium saute pan over medium-high heat, add the garlic; remove the Breadsticks from the heat, and let it cool a bit. Stir in oregano, dried parsley, and salt.
Notes
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and is only an estimate. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.