step one, prepare the sponge mixture

1. Start by preparing the yeast mixture in a Pyrex glass or mixing bowl. Combine warm water (100–110°F) with active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This step ensures the yeast is activated and ready to create soft, fluffy breadsticks.

step two, add the rest of dough ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, softened butter, salt, flour, and milk powder (optional). Mix these ingredients to start forming the dough base. Once the yeast mixture (sponge) is ready and foamy, pour it into the bowl with the other ingredients.

step three, knead the dough

1. Transfer the dough to a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Knead the mixture on medium speed for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops the gluten, which is essential for the soft and fluffy texture of Olive Garden breadsticks. If kneading by hand, work the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10-15 minutes. Ensure the dough is soft but not sticky for the best results.

step four, proof dough

1. Place the kneaded dough into a greased mixing bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to keep it from drying out. Let the dough proof in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, fluffy texture that makes Olive Garden breadsticks so irresistible.

step five, shape the breadsticks

1. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into an even rectangle. Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. For precision, weigh each piece using a kitchen scale. Roll each portion into a smooth breadstick shape. Place the shaped breadsticks onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for rising and cover with plastic wrap.

step six, second proof

1. Allow them to rest for 30 minutes in a warm spot. This resting period lets the dough rise again, ensuring the breadsticks bake up soft, fluffy, and just like Olive Garden’s signature breadsticks.

step seven, bake the olvie garden breadsticks

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven heats up, prepare an egg wash by beating one egg with a tablespoon of whipped cream. Use a pastry brush to generously apply the egg wash on all the Olive Garden breadsticks. This step gives the breadsticks a beautiful golden brown color, just like the restaurant-style breadsticks you love.
2. Bake the Olive Garden breadsticks for 15–18 minutes, or until they are golden and fully cooked. Once out of the oven, brush them with melted butter for a shiny, flavorful finish. This final touch enhances the flavor and gives them the iconic look of buttery breadsticks from Olive Garden.