Breadsticks

This is my all-time favorite breadstick recipe. They are REALLY easy to make and they are REALLY good! My sister-in-law, Jolyn, gave me this recipe and she got it from Taste of Home Magazine.Breadsticks
by Taste of Home (Oct/Nov 2004)

2 pkg (1/4 oz each) yeast
1/2 cup sugar, divided
2 cups warm water, divided
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
4 1/2 - 5 cups flour

In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in 1 cup warm water. Add the oil, egg, salt, 2 cups flour, and remaining sugar and water. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 40 minutes.

Punch the dough down. Turn onto a floured surface; roll out into a rectangle and use a pizza cutter to cut breadsticks. (The recipe originally says to do this: divide into 36 pieces. Shape each piece into a 6 inch rope. *Too much work*) Place each breadstick 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 25 minutes.

Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Immediately brush with melted butter or use the optional topping below:

Optional topping: In a small mixing bowl, cream 1/2 cup of softened butter, 2 tablespoons grated parmesean cheese, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Serve with the breadsticks.