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Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

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4.4 from 121 reviews

These Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks are warm, soft, and loaded with gooey mozzarella and a hint of cheddar or Gruyère for extra flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or side, they feature a tender yeast dough topped with garlic butter and Italian seasoning, baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional, for flavor boost)
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or flaky salt

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Prepare the dough mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
  3. Knead the dough: Mix until a soft dough forms, then turn it onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Shape the breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Roll or stretch the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, score the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide) without cutting all the way through.
  7. Prepare garlic butter topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture evenly over the surface of the dough.
  8. Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, then add the optional cheddar or Gruyère cheese if using.
  9. Bake the breadsticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Finishing touches: Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or flaky salt for an extra flavor punch. Let cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set a bit.

Notes

  • Ensure your water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • You can add herbs like oregano or basil to the dough or topping for added flavor.
  • If you prefer crispier breadsticks, bake a few minutes longer watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • These breadsticks are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven to refresh their texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast dough.

Keywords: cheesy breadsticks, homemade breadsticks, garlic breadsticks, mozzarella breadsticks, easy appetizer, Italian breadsticks, cheesy appetizer

Find it online: https://www.cheftara.com/homemade-cheesy-breadsticks-recipe/