Sourdough Breadsticks: Perfect Party Snack

Breadsticks are the unsung heroes of sourdough baking. They are fast, forgiving, and wildly popular at any gathering. I have brought these to potlucks, game nights, and holiday dinners, and they are always the first thing to disappear. The sourdough adds a subtle tang and complexity that makes them taste like they came from a fancy Italian bakery, even though they take about 45 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 250g bread flour
• 100g active sourdough starter (or discard, both work)
• 130g warm water
• 30g olive oil (plus more for brushing)
• 7g salt
• 5g sugar

For Topping (Choose Your Adventure)

• Garlic herb: Melted butter, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, flaky salt
• Parmesan: Grated Parmesan, black pepper, garlic powder
• Everything: Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, flaky salt

Method

Step 1: Combine all dough ingredients in a bowl and mix until a smooth dough forms. Knead briefly, about 3 to 4 minutes by hand. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. Let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes covered with a towel.

Step 2: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll or press the dough into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut into strips about three-quarters of an inch wide.

Step 3: Gently twist each strip a few times and lay them on the prepared baking sheet about an inch apart. Brush generously with olive oil and sprinkle with your chosen topping.

Step 4: Bake for 14 to 18 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Thinner sticks will be done sooner, thicker ones need the full time. They will crisp up further as they cool.

These breadsticks pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping, a cheese board at a party, or a big bowl of soup. For more quick sourdough snacks, try my Sourdough Crackers or Sourdough Soft Pretzels.