Olive Garden Breadsticks (Soft, Buttery & Vegan Copycat)

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.

   Start 10-minute timer
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.)

   Start 10-minute timer
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.

    Start 45-minute timer
11. 11

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

12. 12

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

    Start 12-minute timer
13. 13

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