Heart Shaped Breadsticks

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Golden, fluffy, and bursting with garlicky butter flavor, Heart Shaped Breadsticks are the edible love notes you didn’t know your dinner table needed. These charming breadsticks are more than just cute—they’re genuinely delicious, pulling double duty as a side dish and an expression of affection. With their buttery crust, soft interior, and eye-catching heart design, they make the perfect addition to date night, Valentine’s Day dinners, or any evening when you want to add a bit of flair to your meal.

What makes these breadsticks special isn’t just the shape, though that certainly earns points for creativity. It’s the garlic butter glaze with herbs and the slightly crisp edges that balance the chewy, pillow-soft center. Whether you pair them with pasta, serve alongside a warm bowl of soup, or enjoy them solo, these little hearts are bound to win big.

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What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Heart Shaped Breadsticks?

A classic pizza dough or soft dinner roll dough works beautifully for heart-shaped breadsticks. The key is flexibility and stretch—you want a dough that can be rolled into ropes and shaped without tearing. If you’re in a hurry, store-bought pizza dough will save time, but for a more personal touch, a homemade yeast dough gives you the fluffiest texture.

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Ingredients for the Heart Shaped Breadsticks

All-Purpose Flour
This is the backbone of the dough, giving the breadsticks their structure and chewiness.

Active Dry Yeast
Necessary for that perfect rise and pillowy interior.

Warm Water
Activates the yeast and helps form the dough.

Sugar
Just a touch to feed the yeast and balance the savory profile.

Salt
Enhances the flavor throughout the breadsticks.

Olive Oil
Adds tenderness and richness to the dough.

Garlic Butter (melted butter + garlic powder)
The signature finishing touch that brings flavor and aroma.

Italian Seasoning or Dried Herbs
Sprinkled over the top for a bakery-style finish.

Crushed Red Pepper (optional)
Adds a little kick and color contrast on top.

Parmesan Cheese (grated)
Melts into the butter topping for irresistible flavor.

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How To Make the Heart Shaped Breadsticks

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Add in olive oil, salt, and gradually mix in the flour. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled.

Step 2: Shape the Hearts

Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, about 8–10 inches long. Form each rope into a heart shape by bringing the ends together and twisting slightly in the center to create the bottom point. Place shaped hearts on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Second Rise

Cover the shaped breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 15–20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 4: Add Garlic Butter Topping

Mix melted butter with garlic powder. Brush generously over each heart. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper (if using), and grated Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the breadsticks for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown on top. Serve warm with marinara, Alfredo, or your favorite dipping sauce.

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How to Serve and Store Heart Shaped Breadsticks

These breadsticks are best served warm, straight out of the oven when the butter is still glistening and the herbs are fragrant. Pair them with a saucy pasta dish, set them alongside a cozy soup like tomato basil, or stack them in a basket for party-style sharing.

To store leftovers, let the breadsticks cool completely, then wrap them in foil or store in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for 2 days or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in a toaster oven or warm oven to restore their just-baked texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the dough or baked breadsticks?

Yes! You can freeze shaped, unbaked breadsticks for up to 2 months. Let them thaw and rise before baking. Baked breadsticks can also be frozen; just reheat in the oven until warm.

How do I make these gluten-free?

Swap the flour with a trusted gluten-free 1:1 baking blend. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different but still tasty.

Can I make them without yeast?

Yes, use a baking powder-based dough like one for biscuits, but the result will be more crumbly and less airy.

What dipping sauces go well with these?

Classic marinara, garlic butter, ranch, or Alfredo sauce all complement these beautifully.

Can I add cheese inside the dough?

Absolutely. Roll shredded mozzarella or cheddar inside each rope before shaping for gooey, cheesy centers.

How do I keep them soft after baking?

Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel as they cool. This traps steam and keeps them soft.

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Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If you enjoyed these heart-shaped breadsticks, here are more tasty ideas from the kitchen:

• Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Rolls for a gooey, savory bite.
• Rosemary Olive Oil Bread if you crave rustic, herby loaves.
• Brioche Cinnamon Knots for a sweet, pillowy option.
• Stuffed Pizza Dough Bites for party-ready finger food.
• Everything Bagel Soft Pretzels with a crunchy, flavorful finish.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer or bread board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you make them spicy? Did the kids help shape them?

I love hearing how you bring these creations to life—questions and tips are welcome too, so let’s bake better together.

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