Homemade Breadsticks

These homemade breadsticks are fluffy, buttery and tender. Bake a fresh batch to dip in a fragrant marinara sauce, or serve them with a zesty salad. The nice part? They come together quickly, with no need for hours and hours of proofing, making this easy homemade breadsticks recipe a simple shortcut when you want fresh bread to complete the meal. 

Ingredients for Homemade Breadsticks

• Dry ingredients: We whisk together all-purpose flour, quick-rise yeast, sugar and salt to form the base of this homemade breadstick recipe. The yeast helps the bread rise and become airy in texture.
• Wet ingredients: We gently heat the milk, water and butter, then combine this mixture with the dry ingredients before kneading the dough.
• Egg white: We brush an egg wash over the breadsticks before baking to give this baked good a shiny coating. 
• Coarse salt: After the egg wash, coarse salt is sprinkled over the breadsticks just before baking.

Directions

Step 1: Combine the dry ingredients

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In a large mixing bowl, combine 1-1/2 cups of the flour, the yeast, sugar and salt. 

Step 2: Mix the wet and dry ingredients

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In a small saucepan, heat the milk, 1/4 cup of the water and the butter to 120° to 130°F. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, and beat on medium speed until just moistened. Stir in enough of the remaining flour to form a stiff dough.

Step 3: Knead the dough, let it rise

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Place the dough on a lightly floured surface, and knead it until it’s smooth and elastic, six to eight minutes. Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to grease the top. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it’s doubled, about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Form the breadsticks, let them rise again

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Preheat the oven to 400°. Punch down the dough. Pinch off golf ball-sized pieces. On a lightly floured surface, shape each into a 6-inch rope. Place them on greased baking sheets 1 inch apart. Cover the dough and let it rise again for 15 minutes.

Step 5: Add the egg wash and bake

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Beat the egg white and remaining 1 tablespoon of water, then brush the mixture over the breadsticks. Sprinkle the coarse salt over the top. Bake until golden, about 10 minutes. Remove the breadsticks from the pans to wire racks to cool.

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Homemade Breadstick Variations

• Fold in cheese: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the dough before baking to give these breadsticks a cheesy taste.
• Sprinkle herbs on top: Before baking the bread, sprinkle rosemary or thyme on top to upgrade the flavor and look of these homemade breadsticks.
• Twist them before baking: To create a braided bread design, cut the breadstick portions in half and then twist them together.

How to Store Homemade Breadsticks

If you have leftover homemade breadsticks, place them in an airtight food-storage container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for three to seven days. 

Can you make these homemade breadsticks ahead of time?

If you plan on hosting a dinner and want to make homemade breadsticks in advance, we recommend following the recipe and then storing them in an airtight container. They will last for three to seven days at room temperature. 

Can you freeze homemade breadsticks?

If you have extra breadsticks, you can freeze them for later. First, store them in an airtight container or a freezer-friendly bag. They’ll last for two to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat them, simply take them out and reheat them.

How long do homemade breadsticks last?

You can store these homemade breadsticks in an airtight container on your counter for three to seven days, or freeze them for two to three months.

Homemade Breadstick Tips

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Can I make a vegan version of these homemade breadsticks?

If you prefer plant-based baked goods, you can customize this recipe with simple swaps. First, use a vegan alternative to milk and butter. Then, instead of an egg wash, brush the breadsticks with olive oil. While the texture and flavor may vary slightly from the original, they will taste delicious. 

Can I make a gluten-free version of these homemade breadsticks?

If you have a gluten intolerance, try switching the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour in this recipe. You can use almond flour, oat flour or coconut flour. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary from the original breadsticks.

How do I know when the homemade breadsticks are finished baking?

The easiest way to check if your homemade breadsticks are finished baking is to watch their appearance. Your breadsticks should start rising and turning golden brown, alerting you that they’re ready to come out of the oven.