There’s nothing quite like the soft, buttery breadsticks from Olive Garden—they’re warm, garlicky, and impossible to resist. This easy copycat recipe lets you recreate those legendary breadsticks right at home. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, soup, or just enjoying them as a snack, these homemade breadsticks will quickly become a family favorite.

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Equipment Needed:

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Kitchen towel
• Basting brush
• Oven

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Ingredients:

For the Breadsticks:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon salt

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, stir together warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.

2. Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), combine flour, softened butter, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic—about 8–10 minutes by hand or with a dough hook on medium speed.

3. Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Breadsticks

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 to 14 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about 6–7 inches long. Place the breadsticks on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. Second Rise

Cover the shaped breadsticks with a towel and let them rise again for 20–30 minutes, until puffy.

6. Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. Make the Garlic Butter

While the breadsticks are baking, melt the butter and stir in garlic powder and salt.

8. Brush and Serve

As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Serve warm.

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Tips & Variations:

• Cheesy twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the breadsticks after brushing with garlic butter.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore softness.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise. Bring to room temp before shaping.

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With their soft texture, buttery finish, and savory garlic topping, these Olive Garden-style breadsticks are comfort food at its finest. Pair them with your favorite Italian dishes or enjoy them on their own—they’re just that good.