Crunchy Sesame Breadsticks Recipe
Introduction
Crunchy breadsticks make a perfect snack or appetizer with a satisfying crisp texture and a hint of toasted sesame flavor. These homemade breadsticks are easy to prepare and baked to a golden brown finish that everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 5 to 6 tablespoons ice cold water
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, toasted sesame seeds, baking powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Add the room temperature butter and mix with your fingertips until the mixture is evenly combined.
- Step 3: Add 5 tablespoons of ice cold water and gently knead the dough with your hands until it forms a firm but slightly soft ball without cracks. Add the extra tablespoon of water if needed. Avoid over-kneading; stop when the dough is smooth and cohesive.
- Step 4: Divide the dough into 20 small pieces by cutting it first into 4 equal sections, then cutting each section into 5 equal parts.
- Step 5: On a clean surface, roll each piece with the palms of your hands, applying gentle but firm pressure, to create a uniform 12-inch rope. If the rope breaks, pinch it back together and continue rolling.
- Step 6: Transfer the ropes carefully to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart in a single layer, as they will not expand during baking.
- Step 7: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the breadsticks are golden brown. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even color. Once done, transfer the breadsticks to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder flavor, reduce or omit red pepper flakes. For extra flavor, try adding garlic powder or dried herbs to the dough.
- If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can substitute with poppy seeds or omit them altogether.
- Toasting the sesame seeds before adding them enhances their nutty flavor.
Storage
Store the cooled breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To refresh their crunch, warm them briefly in a preheated 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I freeze the breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze cooled breadsticks in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?
This recipe relies on all-purpose flour for structure, so substituting with a gluten-free flour blend may change the texture. If using gluten-free flour, choose a blend designed for yeast doughs and adjust water as needed.
Print
Crunchy Sesame Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 20 breadsticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Crunchy Breadsticks are a perfect savory snack made with a simple dough enriched with toasted white sesame seeds and a hint of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Rolled into thin 12-inch ropes and baked to golden perfection, they offer a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with dips or soups. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward preparation, these breadsticks make an ideal appetizer or accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons white sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 + 1/8 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 5 to 6 tablespoons ice cold water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients and butter: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, toasted sesame seeds, baking powder, red pepper flakes, and salt. Add the room-temperature butter and use your fingertips to mix until evenly combined into a crumbly texture.
- Form the dough: Gradually add 5 tablespoons of ice cold water to the mixture, gently kneading with your hands until a firm but slightly soft, smooth dough forms without cracks. Add more water if necessary, but avoid over-kneading to keep the dough tender.
- Divide the dough: Cut the dough into 4 equal sections, then divide each section into 5 equal portions, making a total of 20 small pieces.
- Roll into ropes: Place one piece on a clean surface and roll it with your palms applying gentle but firm pressure to form a uniform 12-inch long rope. If the dough cracks or breaks, simply pinch it back together and continue rolling.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Transfer each rolled breadstick carefully onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them about ½ inch apart since they won’t expand much during baking.
- Bake: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the breadsticks turn golden brown. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.
- Cool and store: Remove from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack to cool completely. Store the breadsticks in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain their crispness.
Notes
- Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor and adds depth to the breadsticks.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit for a milder version.
- Use ice cold water to help achieve a flaky texture and prevent the butter from melting prematurely.
- Make sure not to over-knead the dough to keep the breadsticks light and crunchy rather than tough.
- These breadsticks can be served with dips such as hummus, marinara sauce, or flavored olive oils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Crunchy breadsticks, sesame breadsticks, savory snack, baked breadsticks, homemade snacks

