Cheesy Sourdough Breadsticks with Pepperoni
Indulge in these delectable Cheesy Sourdough Breadsticks, a perfect addition to your gatherings or a comforting side for soups, salads, or pasta dishes. With a delightful balance of tangy sourdough flavor, gooey mozzarella, and savory pepperoni, these breadsticks are an irresistible snack. The dough is soft, flavorful, and easy to prepare either by hand or using a Kitchen Aid mixer. These versatile breadsticks can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a hit for parties or a cozy family dinner. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or frozen for later, they will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
N/A
Servings
150
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
all-purpose flour
2 cups (measured)
sourdough starter
2 cups (active)
water
1-4 tablespoons (as needed)
olive oil
2 1/2 tablespoons (for mixing and brushing)
salt
1 teaspoon (for dough)
parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup (added to dough)
pepperoni, diced
3/4 cup (optional, for pizza variation)
mozzarella string cheese
6 pieces (split lengthwise)
olive oil or non-stick olive oil flavored cooking spray
as needed (for greasing bowls and brushing)
parmesan cheese, grated
for topping (optional)
sea salt
for topping (optional)
garlic salt
for topping (optional)
sesame seeds
for topping (optional)
poppy seeds
for topping (optional)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, blend together the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center of the mixture.
2
Add the sourdough starter and olive oil into the well. Mix on low speed until combined, gradually adding water or more flour as needed to achieve a soft dough.
3
Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the dough, mixing thoroughly.
4
Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you want to make the Pizza Breadsticks, add the diced pepperoni at this stage.
5
Once kneaded, shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning to coat the top with olive oil. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
6
Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment until doubled in size, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
7
Once risen, gently turn the dough out onto a floured work surface. Pull and stretch the dough into a rectangle about 16 x 8 x 1/2 inches thick.
8
Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into 10-12 equal pieces. For Pizza-style Breadsticks, cut the pieces slightly wider and place a mozzarella string cheese piece in the center of each. Fold the dough over the cheese, encasing it completely.
9
Arrange the formed breadsticks 2 inches apart on a pizza peel or a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
10
Cover the breadsticks with a damp towel and let them rise for an additional 45 minutes, or until doubled.
11
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and place a baking stone inside to heat up.
12
Before baking, brush the tops of the breadsticks with olive oil and sprinkle with your choice of toppings such as sea salt, garlic salt, sesame seeds, or poppy seeds.
13
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown. Serve warm for the best flavor.
14
If you're preparing these for freezing, bake them plain, allow to cool on a wire rack, and store in a ziplock bag. To serve later, brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter and reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition Information
6.7g
Fat
17.5g
Carbs
5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of these breadsticks?
The breadsticks feature a tangy sourdough flavor complemented by savory parmesan, gooey mozzarella, and salty pepperoni.
How much sourdough starter do I need for this recipe?
You will need 2 cups of active sourdough starter.
What type of flour is recommended?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of measured all-purpose flour.
How long does the initial dough rise take?
The dough should rise in a warm, draft-free environment for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours until it doubles in size.
What are the dimensions for stretching the dough?
Stretch the dough into a rectangle that is approximately 16 x 8 inches and 1/2 inch thick.
How many breadsticks does this recipe produce?
The recipe produces about 10 to 12 equal pieces.
How do I make the Pizza-style variation?
For pizza-style, add diced pepperoni during kneading and wrap the dough pieces around mozzarella string cheese before the second rise.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
Do I need any special equipment for baking?
The recipe suggests using a baking stone and a pizza peel or parchment-lined tray.
How long is the second rise after shaping?
The shaped breadsticks should rise for an additional 45 minutes or until doubled.
What should I brush on top of the breadsticks before baking?
Brush the tops with olive oil before adding your choice of toppings.
What toppings are suggested for these breadsticks?
Optional toppings include sea salt, garlic salt, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or additional parmesan cheese.
How long do the breadsticks need to bake?
Bake them for 12 to 15 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown.
Can I use a stand mixer for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a Kitchen Aid mixer on low speed to combine ingredients and knead the dough.
How much pepperoni is used in the pizza variation?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of diced pepperoni.
How do I prepare the mozzarella string cheese for stuffing?
Split 6 pieces of mozzarella string cheese lengthwise to use for the centers.
What are the nutritional facts per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 150 calories, 6.7g of fat, 17.5g of carbohydrates, and 5g of protein.
Can these breadsticks be frozen for later?
Yes, bake them plain, allow them to cool, and store them in a ziplock bag in the freezer.
How do I reheat frozen breadsticks?
Brush with olive oil or melted butter and reheat in a hot oven for a few minutes.
What is the purpose of adding parmesan to the dough?
Mixing 1/2 cup of grated parmesan into the dough adds a savory, cheesy flavor throughout the bread.
How much salt is in the dough recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt in the dough mixture.
What should the texture of the dough be after kneading?
The dough should be smooth and elastic after 6 to 8 minutes of kneading.
How much water is typically needed?
You may need between 1 to 4 tablespoons of water, added gradually to achieve a soft dough.
What dishes do these breadsticks pair well with?
They are excellent served with soups, salads, or pasta dishes.
Do I need to grease the bowl for rising?
Yes, place the dough ball in a greased bowl and turn it to coat the top with oil.
What tool is best for cutting the dough strips?
A pizza cutter is recommended for slicing the dough into equal pieces.
How far apart should I place the breadsticks on the tray?
Arrange the formed breadsticks about 2 inches apart to allow for rising and expansion.
Should the breadsticks be covered during the second rise?
Yes, cover them with a damp towel during the 45-minute second rise.
Is the pepperoni mixed into the dough or used as a topping?
For the pizza version, the diced pepperoni is incorporated directly into the dough during the kneading process.
What is the best way to serve these for maximum flavor?
Serve them warm fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture.