Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks Recipe

If you’re looking to fill your kitchen with that irresistible, bakery-style aroma, these Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks are your ticket to coziness! With a deeply flavorful tang from the sourdough, golden buttery crust, and a fragrant garlic herb topping, they’re the kind of breadsticks that vanish faster than you can say “pass the marinara!”

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks are made with just a few everyday staples, but each one plays an essential role in the magic. Every ingredient adds its own touch of flavor, tenderness, or savory aroma, so don’t skip a single one!

• Water: Hydrates the dough and helps it come together smoothly—room temperature is just right.
• Active Sourdough Starter: This is the flavor powerhouse, lending that tangy depth and all the rise you need.
• Honey (or Sugar): Adds a whisper of sweetness and helps feed the sourdough for a gorgeous texture.
• Melted Butter: Delivers richness to the dough and creates a tender crumb (and don’t forget the shine!).
• Sea Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life—don’t underestimate its magic!
• All-Purpose or Bread Flour: Either kind works, with bread flour creating a bit more chew and structure if you want it.
• For Topping – Butter or Olive Oil: Brushed on hot for that signature glossy, flavorful finish.
• Garlic Powder: The classic flavor booster, perfectly even and fragrant.
• Herbs of Your Choice: Think parsley, oregano, basil, or whatever makes your kitchen smell irresistible.
• Extra Salt: Just a pinch in the garlic butter for that addictive, savory bite.

Variations

The beauty of Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks is how easily you can make them your own! Whether you’re cooking for a special diet or just craving something a little different, there’s a delicious twist for every occasion.

• Cheesy Breadsticks: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan over the buttered breadsticks before baking for a gooey, golden cheese pull.
• Whole Wheat Version: Swap part of the white flour for whole wheat to add a hearty, nutty undertone (you may need a splash more water!).
• Extra Garlicky: Fresh minced garlic in the butter takes the aroma and flavor to a whole new level—try it if you’re a true garlic fan.
• Vegan Option: Use olive oil and a drizzle of maple syrup in the dough and topping to keep things plant-based, but every bit as delicious.

How to Make Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks

Step 1: Feed Your Sourdough Starter

Begin by feeding your sourdough starter 8–12 hours before you plan to mix your dough. This long, slow ferment builds the tang and guarantees your Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks have that signature fluffy texture and deep, complex flavor.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Add the water, active starter, honey (or sugar), melted butter, sea salt, and flour to a large bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer. Using the dough hook, knead for about 10 minutes, until it’s smooth and stretchy. This patience pays off—the longer knead creates that signature chewy bite we all love.

Step 3: First Rise (Bulk Fermentation)

Cover the dough and let it rise on the counter until it has grown in size, but not quite doubled. If life gets busy, you can stash the bowl in the fridge overnight—the breadsticks will patiently wait until you’re ready!

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Use a bench scraper to divide it into 12 even pieces (a kitchen scale is your friend for uniform breadsticks). Roll each piece on the counter into a long, smooth log—that distinctive breadstick shape!

Step 5: Second Rise

Arrange the shaped breadsticks evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a tea towel and let them puff up for 1–2 hours—they’ll look slightly fuller and feel light to the touch when ready for the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 20 minutes until they’re golden brown and their crusts sing when tapped. Resist the urge to eat them straight from the oven—they’re not finished yet!

Step 7: Brush with Garlic Herb Butter

While the breadsticks are still piping hot, melt the butter or olive oil and stir in your garlic powder, herbs, and a pinch of salt. Brush this flavor-packed mixture generously over each breadstick. They’ll shine, smell heavenly, and taste even better than any restaurant version.

How to Serve Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks

Garnishes

Give your breadsticks that extra pop by dusting them with freshly chopped parsley or a grating of parmesan cheese while the butter is still glistening. A sprinkle of chili flakes or cracked black pepper adds a fun, flavorful kick for anyone who likes a little heat!

Side Dishes

These Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks love being dipped into just about anything: warm tomato soup, classic marinara, or a rich, creamy alfredo sauce. They’re perfect next to salads, roast chicken, or as the shining star on an appetizer platter with olives and cheeses.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them in a tall glass or arrange on a rustic wooden board—it instantly feels like a special occasion. For parties, serve breadsticks in a flower arrangement shape with small bowls of sauces in the middle. Or tie bundles with twine for a picnic-ready look!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), let the breadsticks cool, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days—just keep them away from any bits of moisture to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

To freeze for later enjoyment, allow the breadsticks to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and pop into a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to two months, and you can thaw them individually as needed.

Reheating

For the best fresh-from-the-oven experience, warm breadsticks in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or until just heated through. Brushing with a little extra garlic herb butter after reheating makes them taste bakery-fresh all over again!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Garlic Herb Sourdough Breadsticks for yourself! They bring so much warmth and happiness to any table—whether you’re sharing them with family, friends, or quietly savoring one fresh from the oven. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your new homemade favorite!

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