Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Rhodes White Bread (thawed*)
- ⅓ cup prepared pesto (refrigerated variety preferred over shelf-stable jar)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- ¼ tsp garlic salt (optional)
Instructions
- Thaw the dough: Place a loaf of Rhodes frozen dough on a greased or silicone-lined baking sheet and cover with sprayed plastic wrap. Let it thaw and rise for about 4-5 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator until fully risen.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the breadsticks.
- Roll out dough: Roll the thawed dough into a large rectangle about 12×18 inches (the size of a half sheet tray). Use a light dusting of flour to prevent sticking if necessary.
- Spread pesto: Evenly spread ⅓ cup of prepared pesto over the rolled-out dough to create a flavorful layer.
- Add cheese and fold: Sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pesto. Then fold the dough in half by bringing the shorter ends together, enclosing the pesto and cheese inside.
- Cut into strips: Use a pizza cutter to divide the folded dough into twelve 1-inch wide strips. Be careful if using a silicone mat underneath to avoid cutting it.
- Twist the breadsticks: Gently twist each strip to form breadsticks, keeping as much filling sealed within as possible. Place the twisted breadsticks about 1 inch apart on a prepared baking sheet.
- Rest the dough: Cover the breadsticks lightly with sprayed plastic wrap and let them rest for 20-30 minutes to allow for a final rise.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through.
- Brush with garlic butter: Mix the melted unsalted butter with garlic salt (if using) and brush over the warm breadsticks to add extra flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Thawing time can vary depending on room temperature; ensure the dough is fully risen before proceeding.
- Use refrigerated pesto for the best fresh flavor rather than shelf-stable jarred versions.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, adjust the amount of garlic salt or brush with garlic butter more than once.
- These breadsticks are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated in the oven to restore crispness.
- Variations: Try adding different cheeses like parmesan or fontina for variety.
- Prep Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
