Breadsticks (Like Olive Garden)

Dough Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water, plus 2 tablespoons, 110 degrees, divided
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast 
• 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt

Topping Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

Dough Directions

1. Place 1/4 cup warm water in the bowl of a mixer; sprinkle in the yeast and set aside until foamy, about 5 minutes. Add the flour, butter, sugar, fine salt and 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons warm water; mix with the paddle attachment until a slightly stick dough forms, 5 minutes.
2. Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until very smooth and soft, 3 minutes. Roll into a 2-foot-long log; cut into 16 1 1/2-inch pieces. Knead each piece slightly and shape into a 7-inch long breadstick; arrange 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth; let rise in a warm spot until almost doubled, about 45 minutes.

Topping Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400° F.
2. Brush the breadsticks with 1 1/2 tablespoons of the butter and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt.
3. Bake until slightly golden, about 15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, combine the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt with the garlic powder and oregano.
5. Brush the warm breadsticks with the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle with the salt, garlic, and oregano mixture.