Introduction 🧀
Herb cheese breadsticks are the perfect snack for when you crave something crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Infused with aromatic herbs, tangy cheese, and served with a smooth, creamy cheddar sauce, these breadsticks can be enjoyed as an appetizer, party snack, or a light comfort food treat. They are quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the table!
Ingredients
For the Breadsticks:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley or 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
- ½ cup (60g) grated cheddar or parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (120ml) warm milk (adjust as needed)
- Oil for frying (or you can bake for a lighter version)
For the Cheddar Dipping Sauce:
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (120g) grated cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp paprika powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions & Methods
Making the Breadsticks:
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, parsley, oregano, and grated cheese.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in melted butter and warm milk gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the breadsticks: Roll small portions of dough into thin, even sticks (about the length of your hand).
- Cooking options:
- Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 175°C (350°F) and fry breadsticks until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes).
- Baking: Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F), place breadsticks on a lined baking sheet, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
Making the Cheddar Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour to create a smooth paste (roux) and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form.
- Once thickened, stir in cheddar cheese, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Keep warm until serving.
History
Breadsticks originated in Italy, specifically in the Piedmont region, during the 17th century. Known as grissini, they were originally thin and crisp, designed to aid digestion and served alongside soups or cheese platters. Over time, various cultures adapted them with different flavors, cheeses, and cooking methods, giving rise to delicious variations like these herb and cheese breadsticks with creamy dips.
Benefits
- Protein & Calcium: From the cheese and milk.
- Quick Energy: Carbs from flour give instant energy, perfect for snacks.
- Customizable: Can be made gluten-free or vegan with substitutions.
- Great for Sharing: A sociable, finger-food style snack.
Formation (Serving Presentation)
- Serve breadsticks in a woven basket or on a wooden board.
- Place cheddar sauce in a small dipping bowl in the center.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a restaurant-style finish.
Conclusion
Herb cheese breadsticks with cheddar dipping sauce are a fun and flavorful snack that’s easy to make and even easier to love. They bridge the gap between Italian tradition and modern comfort food, offering a taste that appeals to all ages.
For the Lovers of This Snack
❤️
If you’re a fan of:
- Cheesy garlic bread
- Mozzarella sticks
- Soft pretzels with cheese dip
…then this recipe will feel like your new go-to comfort snack. It’s perfect for movie nights, parties, picnics, or even as a side dish to soups and salads.