Description
These Focaccia Breadsticks offer a delightful twist on traditional focaccia bread with a crispy exterior and soft, airy interior. Infused with Italian seasoning and garlic, and topped with parmesan cheese, they make a perfect appetizer or snack that’s easy to prepare and bake.
Ingredients
Breadsticks
- 1 cup (237 g) water, warmed (about 110°-115°F)
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup (75 g) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour
Topping
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup (25 g) parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warmed water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes until the yeast blooms and becomes frothy, indicating it’s active.
- Prepare Oil Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of extra virgin olive oil, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt to create a flavorful oil blend.
- Combine Yeast and Oil: Pour half of the oil mixture into the yeast mixture and mix gently. Set aside the remaining oil mixture for later use.
- Add Flour: Gradually add the 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Let Dough Rise: Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) to preheat while the dough is rising.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the remaining oil mixture into a 7×11-inch baking dish and use a pastry brush to coat the bottom evenly, preventing sticking and adding flavor.
- Shape Dough: Transfer the risen dough to the prepared baking dish and stretch it gently to the edges. Use your fingers to create characteristic dimples in the dough surface.
- Slice Dough: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, make three equally spaced slices across the short side of the baking dish, then slice down the center lengthwise to create eight breadsticks.
- Apply Topping: Brush the top of the breadsticks with one teaspoon of olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder and kosher salt for enhanced flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the breadsticks turn golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from the oven and immediately brush the baked breadsticks with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese over the top and serve warm for the best taste.
Notes
- Ensure water temperature is between 110°-115°F to properly activate yeast without killing it.
- The dimpling technique helps to create the traditional focaccia texture and allows flavors to penetrate.
- The slicing step can be done either before or after baking; following this recipe’s timing helps keep the shape intact.
- Use fresh yeast and quality extra virgin olive oil for best flavor.
- Serve warm for the most enjoyable texture and taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian