Gluten Free Garlic Pizza Breadsticks

Y’all, there’s just something about the smell of garlic baking in the oven that makes my whole family come running to the kitchen! I can almost hear my kiddos now, “Mama, are those the garlic breadsticks?!” These gluten free garlic pizza breadsticks are a family favorite around here, and I’ve made them at least a dozen times in my own Texas kitchen. I promise you, even if you’re not gluten-free, you’ll be reaching for seconds. This recipe delivers perfectly soft, flavorful breadsticks that are easy to make and even easier to devour. Get ready for happy faces around your dinner table!

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s be honest, finding gluten-free bread recipes that actually taste good can be a challenge. But trust me, this one is a winner. Here’s why these gluten free garlic pizza breadsticks work so well for busy families:

• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 45 minutes, most of which is hands-off rising time.
• Kid-Approved: What kid (or adult!) doesn’t love pizza and garlic bread? These are always a hit, even with my picky eaters.
• Versatile: Dip ’em in marinara, serve them with soup, or just enjoy them as a snack.
• Gluten-Free Goodness: We use a simple blend of gluten-free flours that create a texture surprisingly close to the real deal.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum (I like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient Notes

Okay, let’s talk ingredients for a sec. Here’s the lowdown on why these components matter and how you can tweak things if needed:

• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: This is the most important ingredient! Make sure you’re using a blend that already contains xanthan gum. If yours doesn’t, add about ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients. Xanthan gum helps bind the gluten-free dough together, giving it a better texture.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast is what gives these breadsticks their fluffy texture. Be sure to check the expiration date to ensure it’s still active. If your yeast is old, your breadsticks might not rise properly.
• Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning: These add that classic pizza bread flavor. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your liking. You can also use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, just make sure it’s finely minced.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy flavor. You can substitute with Romano or Asiago cheese if you prefer. For a dairy-free option, use a vegan Parmesan alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create the perfect gluten free garlic pizza breadsticks:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, until foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready to go. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to start again with fresh yeast.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the gluten-free flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Don’t overmix! Gluten-free dough can become tough if overworked.
3. Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size. I usually place it in my oven with the light on.
4. Shape the Breadsticks: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet. Gently deflate the dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands to pat the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide.
5. Add Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Brush the garlic butter evenly over the breadsticks.
6. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them – gluten-free bread can burn easily!
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. We love marinara sauce, but ranch dressing is also delicious.

Storage & Meal Prep

Here’s how to keep those delicious gluten free garlic pizza breadsticks fresh and ready to enjoy:

• Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or microwave them for a short burst. Reheating in the oven will help restore some of the crispiness.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them completely before reheating. They might not be quite as soft as fresh, but they’ll still be tasty!

Substitutions & Variations

Want to tweak this recipe to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences? Here are a few ideas:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and Parmesan cheese alternative. You can also brush the breadsticks with olive oil instead of butter.
• Vegan: In addition to dairy-free substitutions, make sure your sugar is vegan-friendly (some brands use bone char in the refining process).
• Herb It Up: Experiment with different herbs! Rosemary, oregano, or basil would all be delicious additions.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different gluten-free flour blend?

Yes, but keep in mind that different blends can yield different results. I recommend using a blend that’s specifically designed for baking and already contains xanthan gum. If you use a blend without xanthan gum, be sure to add about ½ teaspoon to the dry ingredients.

How do I know when the breadsticks are done?

The breadsticks are done when they’re golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer – it should be around 200°F (93°C).

Can I make this without Parmesan cheese?

Absolutely! Just omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Can I add toppings like pepperoni or olives?

You bet! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Just add them before baking.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, these are definitely kid-friendly! My kids love them. You can even let your kids help with shaping the breadsticks – it’s a fun and easy activity.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even just olive oil with herbs are also delicious.

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