These crispy, golden breadsticks, also known as grissini, are a delightful Italian snack. With a simple dough made from flour, olive oil, and yeast, these breadsticks are irresistibly crunchy and can be customized with seeds or herbs. Perfect for pairing with cheese, olives, or a charcuterie board, these homemade grissini are sure to be a crowd favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Grissini are not your typical breadsticks; they are thin, crispy, and bursting with flavor. What makes this recipe even better is that it’s incredibly easy to make with minimal kneading, and you don’t need a stand mixer. The dough comes together quickly, and you can personalize it with your favorite seeds, herbs, or even a bit of cheese. These crispy breadsticks are great as an appetizer, snack, or accompaniment to soups, salads, and even pastas. Plus, they’re made with olive oil, which adds a rich flavor and crisp texture that you can’t resist.
Ingredients
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2 cups (250 grams) bread flour or all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon fine salt (or ¾ teaspoon if using parmesan cheese)
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1 teaspoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
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½ cup + 1 tablespoon (135 ml) lukewarm water
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¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil or extra virgin olive oil
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2-3 tablespoons seeds (optional, such as sesame, chia, or poppy seeds)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt. If you are using any optional ingredients like garlic powder or parmesan cheese, add them at this step.
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Stir in the lukewarm water and olive oil, mixing well with a spatula. Adjust the water if necessary, especially if you’re using cheese or whole-grain flour.
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Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
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Place the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet and flatten it into a rectangular shape (about 11 x 7 inches).
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Brush the dough liberally with olive oil (or melted butter), then sprinkle with seeds. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it’s doubled in size.
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Cut the dough into ½-inch-wide strips using a pizza cutter.
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Gently stretch each strip to make it longer and thinner. Arrange them on the baking sheets. It’s fine if they are uneven or rustic in appearance.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them and check after 15 minutes; you might need to bake them for a few extra minutes.
Servings and timing
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Servings: Approximately 18 breadsticks
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Proofing Time: 1 hour
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Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Variations
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Cheesy Grissini: Add ¼ cup of grated parmesan to the dough for a cheesy twist. Reduce the salt to ¾ teaspoon.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Add ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder to the dough for a savory, garlicky flavor.
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Herb-Infused Grissini: Sprinkle the dough with dried herbs like rosemary or oregano before baking for a fragrant, flavorful treat.
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Smoky Version: Top with smoked sea salt for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy texture of the grissini.
Storage/Reheating
Grissini are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container or sealed bag for up to 2-3 days. In humid climates, they may soften sooner, so it’s best to consume them quickly. If they lose their crispiness, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crunch.
FAQs
How do I make sure my breadsticks stay crispy?
The key to crispy grissini is to bake them until they are golden and crunchy. If they soften, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes! After kneading, you can freeze the dough in an airtight bag. When you’re ready, thaw the dough completely, let it rise again, then proceed with shaping and baking.
What kind of flour can I use for breadsticks?
You can use bread flour or all-purpose flour. For a different texture, try using whole wheat flour or a mix of different flours.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it first by dissolving it in warm water before adding it to the flour mixture.
Can I make these breadsticks without olive oil?
While olive oil is preferred for its flavor and texture, you can substitute it with melted butter for a different taste, though it may affect the crispiness.
How can I customize my breadsticks?
You can add various seeds like sesame, chia, or poppy seeds, or sprinkle dried herbs like rosemary or oregano. Parmesan cheese and garlic powder are also great options for extra flavor.
How thin should I make the breadsticks?
The breadsticks should be thin but not too delicate, as thinner sections can burn easily. Aim for a rustic, uneven look—this is part of the charm!
How long should I bake breadsticks?
Bake the breadsticks for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven.
Can I use a stand mixer to knead the dough?
No, the dough is so easy to handle that it doesn’t require a stand mixer. Simply knead it by hand for 1-2 minutes.
Are these breadsticks vegan?
Yes, these grissini are vegan if you use olive oil and avoid adding cheese or butter.
Conclusion
These crispy Italian grissini breadsticks are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Simple to make, customizable, and irresistible, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether served with cheese, olives, or on a charcuterie board, these homemade breadsticks bring the authentic taste of Italy to your table. Give them a try, and you’ll see why they are so addictively good!
