Almost Famous Breadsticks (Olive Garden)

Remember "Good idea, Bad idea" from the show Animainiacs when we were kids?  Well these breadsticks are just another episode.  Good Idea: Making the best breadsticks on earth, at home with a big Italian feast.  Bad Idea:  Eating way to many, because they are addicting, and then having to add an extra 30 minute jog to the day!  So I encourage trying these, but beware, they may cause extra cushioning to your booty.  I found this recipe in my current issue of  The Food Network Magazine.

For the Dough: 

1 pkg. active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp.)

4 1/4 cups all purpose flour, plus more for dusting

2 T. unsalted butter, softened

2 T. sugar

1 T. fine salt

For the Topping:

3 T. unsalted butter, melted

1/2 tsp. kosher salt

1/8 to 1/4 tsp. garlic powder

pinch of dried oregano

1. Make the dough: 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 T. warm water; mix with paddle attachment until a slightly sticky dough forms.  
2. Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until smooth and soft, 3 minutes.  Roll into a 2 foot long log; cut into 16 even 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 doubled in size, about 45 minutes.  
3. Preheat the oven to 400.  Make the topping:  Brush the breadsticks with 1 1/2 T. melted butter and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp. kosher salt.  Bake until lightly golden, about 15 minutes.  Meanwhile, combine the remaining 1/4 tsp salt with the garlic powder and oregano.  Brush the warm breadsticks with the remaining 1 1/2 T. melted butter and sprinkle with flavored salt.   

THE VERDICT:  OH SO GOOD!!!!  They were perfect with spaghetti, and my hubby even got out some olive oil and dipping spices to dip the stick in.