Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks are a great way to enjoy the comforting, cheesy flavors of pizza in an easy-to-make snack or side dish. The dough is soft and pillowy, while the topping is a delightful combination of mozzarella, butter, garlic, and Italian herbs. You can customize the flavor by adding cheddar or Gruyère cheese for a unique twist, or even sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little kick. Best of all, the simple steps and minimal ingredients make these breadsticks a breeze to prepare and bake at home.

Ingredients

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
• 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, and stir until the dough starts to come together. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is rising.
5. Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangular shape, about 10×6 inches, or to the desired thickness.
6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the top of the dough.
7. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, followed by the optional cheddar or Gruyère cheese if using.
8. Bake: Transfer the prepared dough to a greased baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
9. Optional Finishing Touch: If desired, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes or flaky salt for an added flavor boost.
10. Slice and Serve: Let the breadsticks cool for a few minutes before slicing into strips. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 10-12 breadsticks, depending on the size.
• Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes (excluding rising time)
• Rising Time: 1-1.5 hours
• Baking Time: 12-15 minutes

Variations

• Cheese Mix: Try different combinations of cheese such as provolone, parmesan, or fontina for a more complex flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or rosemary to the topping for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy Option: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the dough or top the breadsticks with a drizzle of hot sauce after baking.
• Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Instead of adding mozzarella, top the breadsticks with a mixture of garlic, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese for a classic garlic bread flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cheesy breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain the crispy crust and melted cheese. You can also microwave for 20-30 seconds, but the texture will not be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. After kneading, cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

2. Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?

Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding the ingredients and let the machine handle the rest.

3. How do I get the breadsticks extra crispy?

For an extra crispy texture, bake the breadsticks on a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet, and keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent burning.

4. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber.

5. What can I use if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can use instant yeast as a substitute for active dry yeast in this recipe. No need to proof instant yeast—simply add it directly to the dry ingredients.

6. Can I freeze these breadsticks?

Yes, you can freeze the baked breadsticks. After they cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?

Definitely! You can use a variety of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

8. How can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?

To make these breadsticks gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your yeast is also gluten-free, as some may contain traces of gluten.

9. Can I add some vegetables to the topping?

Yes! You can top the breadsticks with sautéed mushrooms, onions, or even spinach for a savory twist. Just be sure to cook any vegetables beforehand to avoid extra moisture on the breadsticks.

10. How do I make these breadsticks more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, try adding a bit of grated parmesan to the topping, or sprinkle some dried oregano, basil, or thyme on top of the cheese before baking.

Conclusion

These Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food, combining the irresistible flavors of cheese, garlic, and buttery goodness into one easy-to-make snack. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, using them as a party appetizer, or enjoying them on their own, these breadsticks are always a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, you can enjoy this cheesy treat in no time. Make them today and experience the ultimate cheesy indulgence!

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