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Homemade Cheese Breadsticks photo

Cheese Breadsticks

These Cheese Breadsticks are a cheesy delight! Soft, fluffy, and perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Tangzhong:
  • 1 oz bread flour for the tangzhong
  • 5 oz water to make the tangzhong
For the Dough:
  • 2 oz water for the dough
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 2 oz tangzhong the secret to soft breadsticks
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances flavor
  • 1 oz sugar a touch of sweetness
  • 1.5 cups bread flour + 1 tablespoon
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 tablespoon
  • 2 tablespoons baking milk powder + 1 teaspoon
  • 2 teaspoons yeast for leavening
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter cubed at room temperature
  • 1 egg yolk for a shiny egg wash
  • 1 teaspoon milk also for the egg wash
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese the star ingredient
  • 1.5 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish and flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 oz (30g) bread flour and 5 oz (150g) water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens into a paste. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tangzhong, 2 oz (60g) water, 1 large beaten egg, salt, sugar, 1.5 cups bread flour, 1 cup all-purpose flour, milk powder, and yeast. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add the cubed butter during the last few minutes of kneading to incorporate it fully.
  4. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, approximately 1/2 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.
  6. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over half of each strip. Fold the other half over the cheese and press down gently to seal.
  7. Place the shaped breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  8. While the breadsticks are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with 1 tsp milk. Brush the tops of the breadsticks with this mixture for a beautiful golden finish.
  10. Bake the breadsticks for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley while still warm.

Notes

  • Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
  • Don’t rush the rising time; it’s crucial for fluffy breadsticks.
  • Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor twist.