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Crazy Bread Recipe

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4.1 from 41 reviews

This Crazy Bread recipe features soft, buttery breadsticks topped with Parmesan cheese, perfect as a savory appetizer or snack. Made from scratch with yeast and bread flour, these breadsticks are golden-baked to perfection and served with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 18 servings

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry or rapid rise yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 1/2 cups bread flour

Toppings and Serving

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (powdered)
  • Marinara sauce (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Mix gently to combine, then cover with a dish towel and let it stand for 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy and proofed.
  2. Add Salt and Oil: Once the yeast has proofed, add the salt and vegetable oil to the mixture and mix well to incorporate.
  3. Add the Flour: Gradually add the bread flour, one cup at a time, mixing well between additions to form a dough.
  4. Knead the Dough: After all the flour is incorporated, knead the dough in the mixer for an additional 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Roll and Cut the Dough: Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into breadsticks about 1/2 inch wide.
  6. Arrange for Second Rise: Place the breadsticks on a lined cookie sheet, spaced about 1/4 inch apart to allow expansion. Cover with a clean dish towel and let them rest for 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the breadsticks for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
  8. Butter and Cheese Topping: Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately spread melted butter over them, then generously sprinkle with powdered Parmesan cheese.
  9. Serve: Serve the warm breadsticks alongside marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Use warm water (around 110°F) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Ensure the dough is kneaded well to develop gluten for a soft, chewy texture.
  • Spacing the breadsticks apart on the baking sheet is important to prevent them from sticking together as they rise and bake.
  • For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the melted butter before brushing.
  • Marinara sauce should be warmed up before serving for the best contrast with the warm breadsticks.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American