Olive Garden Breadsticks (Soft, Buttery & Vegan Copycat)

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
• 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tbsp white sugar
• 3 tbsp vegan butter (melted; for the dough)
• 1.5 tsp salt (for the dough)
• 3 cup all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
• 3 tbsp vegan butter (melted; for topping)
• 0.5 tsp garlic powder (for topping)
• 0.5 tsp salt (for topping)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar.

2. 2

   Stir gently. Cover and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy on top to activate the yeast.

3. 3

   Add the melted vegan butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.

4. 4

   Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly sticky, but still easy to handle.

5. 5

   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. (Or knead in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 to 6 minutes.)

6. 6

   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, until doubled in size.

7. 7

   Lightly punch down the dough and use a knife to cut the dough into 12 equal pieces.

8. 8

   Gently roll each piece into a rope about 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 cm) long.

9. 9

   Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

10. 10

    Cover loosely and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes, until puffy.

11. 11

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

12. 12

    Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until lightly golden on top.

13. 13

    Immediately brush the warm breadsticks with melted vegan butter, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder and salt. Serve warm.

Notes

Ensure the water is warm (105–110°F) but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast. If the dough feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time; if too sticky, add a little more flour. For a variation, try adding vegan parmesan or Italian seasoning to the topping. Reheat in the microwave for 10-20 seconds or in a 350°F oven until warm.

Nutrition per serving

• breadsticks
• vegan
• copycat
• side dish
• baking
• Italian-inspired