Breadsticks with Parmesan Butter Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup sugar, divided
• 2 cups warm water (110° to 115°), divided
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4-1/2 to 5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

• In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in 1 cup warm water. Add the oil, egg, salt, 2 cups flour, and remaining sugar and water. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.
• Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 40 minutes.
• Punch the dough down. Turn onto a floured surface; divide into 36 pieces. Shape each piece into a 6-in. rope. Place 2 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 25 minutes.
• Bake at 400° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, cream the butter, Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Serve with breadsticks. Yield: 3 dozen breadsticks and about 2/3 cup butter.

Breadsticks with Parmesan Butter published in Taste of Home October/November 2004, p34