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
Scale
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
