Name: Focaccia Breadsticks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 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; 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ cup (25 g) parmesan cheese, grated

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 58 reviews

If you love soft, flavorful bread with a delightful crisp edge, then this Focaccia Breadsticks Recipe is going to become your new go-to snack or appetizer. Combining the herby goodness of Italian seasoning with the gentle embrace of garlic and parmesan, these breadsticks are wonderfully easy to make and utterly addictive. They bring a wonderful mix of tender crumb and crispy golden crust that’s perfect for dipping, sharing, or simply enjoying on their own with a drizzle of olive oil or your favorite sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two views of a rectangular focaccia bread in a metal baking pan placed on a white marbled surface. The bread has a golden brown crust with a soft, airy texture visible on top. In the top part of the image, a woman's hand holds a red silicone brush, gently brushing a layer of oil or butter over the bread, highlighting the shiny, moist surface. The focaccia is divided into rectangular sections with slight dimples, and there are some green herbs sprinkled lightly on top. In the bottom part, the focaccia is dusted evenly with grated white cheese, adding a fine, textured layer over the golden crust. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple by using essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and that classic focaccia aroma. You’ll find that using quality olive oil and fresh seasonings really elevates the experience.

1 cup (237 g) water, warmed (about 110°-115°F): The perfect temperature activates the yeast without killing it, crucial for a good rise.
1 teaspoon active dry yeast: This is the magic ingredient that makes your dough fluffy and light.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a slight touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
⅓ cup (75 g) extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness, moisture, and that authentic Italian flavor.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives these breadsticks their signature taste.
2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of savory aroma that complements every bite.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all other flavors without overwhelming.
2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour: The structure for your breadsticks, making them perfectly chewy.
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided: Used for coating and finishing to create a glossy, flavorful crust.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of garlic flavor on top, enhancing the fresh minced garlic inside.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Sprinkled on top for that delightful seasoning crunch.
¼ cup (25 g) parmesan cheese, grated: Gives a salty, nutty finish, melting slightly on top for extra indulgence.

How to Make Focaccia Breadsticks Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Allow this mixture to rest for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the yeast start to bubble and foam as it blooms, which means it’s ready to give your bread that light, airy texture.

Step 2: Mix the Flavorful Oil

While the yeast is blooming, whisk together ⅓ cup of extra virgin olive oil with the Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and salt. This aromatic oil mixture is going to gently infuse your dough with bold, savory notes. Pour half of it into the yeast mixture and save the rest for later steps.

Step 3: Bring the Dough Together

Add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients and stir everything until it just comes together into a sticky dough. This step is key to ensure your breadsticks have a tender crumb inside.

Step 4: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour. You’ll see the dough double in size, signaling that it’s beautifully risen and full of life.

Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Shape the Dough

Preheat your oven to 450°F. While it’s warming up, pour the remaining oil mixture into a 7×11-inch baking dish and use a pastry brush to coat the bottom thoroughly. Transfer the risen dough into the pan, gently working it toward the edges. Press your fingers into the dough to create cute dimples all over, which will soak up the seasoned oil and create a delightful texture and look.

Step 6: Slice into Breadsticks

Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife to make three equally spaced cuts across the short side of the pan, then slice down the center lengthwise. This will give you eight perfectly portioned breadsticks that bake evenly and are easy to pull apart when serving.

Step 7: Season and Bake

Brush the breadsticks with one teaspoon of olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder and kosher salt evenly over them. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown and crisp around the edges, a visual cue that they’re ready for your table.

Step 8: Final Touch and Serve

Right after baking, immediately brush the breadsticks with the remaining olive oil and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top. This final flourish adds a gorgeous sheen and a melty, salty finish that takes these breadsticks to irresistible heights.

How to Serve Focaccia Breadsticks Recipe

The image shows a stack of five golden-brown bread slices on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer has two rectangular slices placed side by side, with a third slice resting on top of them. Above that, there is a fourth slice leaning slightly, and finally, a fifth smaller piece is balanced on the top, showing its soft, airy inside texture. The bread is sprinkled with grated white cheese and small green herb bits, adding texture and color. In the blurry background, a small white bowl with green garnish inside is visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the parmesan topping is classic, feel free to add fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or parsley to brighten things up. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dash of chili flakes can also give your breadsticks a flavorful twist that guests will love.

Side Dishes

The soft yet crispy texture of these breadsticks pairs beautifully with rich tomato sauces, creamy cheeses like ricotta or burrata, or alongside hearty soups and stews. They also make a wonderful companion to charcuterie boards or fresh salads for a lighter meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice them into longer, thinner strips for dipping or serve them stacked in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin. Drizzle infused olive oil or a balsamic glaze just before serving for an elegant touch that transforms these simple breadsticks into a party star.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover focaccia breadsticks, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and tasty for up to 2 days, perfect for snacking without losing their charm.

Freezing

Wrap cooled breadsticks tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze wonderfully for up to 2 months, so you can always have a batch ready for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover breadsticks back to life, pop them in a preheated 375°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. This reheats them gently, restoring crisp edges while keeping the inside soft and pillowy. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber, but it may make the breadsticks a bit denser. You can also try a half-and-half mix for the best of both worlds.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can create your own by mixing dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Fresh herbs can work too, just adjust the quantity since they’re more potent.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise for a full hour?

Yes, the rise time lets the yeast ferment and develop those bubbles that make the breadsticks soft and airy. If you’re in a hurry, you can try a shorter rise in a warm spot, but the texture might be a little denser.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Gluten-free flours behave very differently, so this recipe would need some tweaking, especially with binding agents like xanthan gum. It’s possible, but I’d recommend looking for a focaccia breadsticks recipe specifically crafted for gluten-free baking.

What’s the best way to serve these breadsticks warm?

The best way is fresh out of the oven, brushed with olive oil and parmesan as described. If you need to warm them later, a quick oven reheat preserves their texture wonderfully compared to the microwave.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making your own breadsticks, especially when they are as flavorful and comforting as this Focaccia Breadsticks Recipe. Whether for a casual snack, a party appetizer, or a side to your favorite meal, they never fail to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, grab these simple ingredients, and enjoy the warm, herby goodness that only freshly baked breadsticks can bring!