In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until it becomes foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired, so try again with fresh yeast.
2. Make the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and garlic powder. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a spoon until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
3. Let the dough rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the breadsticks:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope, about 6-8 inches long, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake the breadsticks:
Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top.
6. Butter and season:
While the breadsticks are baking, melt the butter in a small bowl. Once the breadsticks are done, remove them from the oven and immediately brush them with the melted butter.
Sprinkle the breadsticks with garlic salt (or regular salt, to taste).
7. Serve:
Serve the breadsticks warm with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or just on their own. Enjoy!
