Breadsticks

Breadsticks are fun to serve as a snack with pizza dipping sauce or to serve along side a bowl of steaming soup.  My kids love to dip them in their chowder. You can make any recipe for bread dough or use frozen dough you have thawed out.

Roll your dough out into a rectangle.  If your dough is pulling back and difficult to roll, just let is sit a few minutes.  The gluten needs to relax a little.You want your dough to be pretty thin - remember that it will rise to double it's size .

If you want to add some spices, brush dough with melted butter.  If you want plain bread sticks, skip this step.

Sprinkle with spices.  I added garlic powder and basil.  They are also good with some Parmesan cheese.  Cut into 1/2-inch wide strips using a pizza cutter.  I love my solid surface counter top that lets me cut right on it.  Transfer your dough to a cutting board if you have to.

Make one horizontal cut through the center.  Twist each piece and place on greased baking tray.

Allow to rise about 20 minutes.  Bake at 425 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.  Brush with melted butter while hot.

Place in a fabric lined basket and cover with a towel to keep warm.  These freeze well.  Just allow to cool completely and place in a plastic bag and freeze for later.  To reheat, wrap in foil and place in a warm oven for a few minutes.