Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Soft (Print Version)

Fluffy, golden breadsticks loaded with cheese and herbs, finished with melty butter and fresh parsley.

# Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 1 and 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
02 - 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
03 - 2 and 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
04 - 3 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for greasing
06 - 1 teaspoon salt

→ Flavorings and Toppings

07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
08 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
09 - 1 and 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
10 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
12 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

# Steps:

01 - In a small bowl, mix warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add olive oil and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and stir to incorporate.
03 - Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, mixing continuously. Reserve the remaining flour for kneading. Stir until the dough starts to form.
04 - Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes, gradually adding the reserved flour as needed, until smooth and elastic.
05 - Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm location for 30 minutes or until doubled in volume.
06 - Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
07 - Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide into 8 to 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long stick approximately 8 inches in length. Arrange evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
08 - Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the shaped breadsticks, pressing gently to adhere.
09 - Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the edges are crisp.
10 - Remove from the oven and immediately brush each breadstick with melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all the grated Parmesan over the hot breadsticks.
11 - If desired, add chopped fresh parsley on top. Slice into individual breadsticks and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Incorporating Italian herbs and garlic powder enhances the savory character; for best texture, avoid over-kneading the dough. Cheese can be varied to suit personal taste.