There is something truly magical about the combination of fresh herbs, rich vegan cheese, and warm, crispy breadsticks that make this Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe an absolute showstopper. Imagine biting into a golden-crisp breadstick, bursting with the vibrant flavors of homemade basil pesto and the nutty, cheesy goodness of vegan parmesan. Whether you are a longtime vegan or simply looking for a delicious and plant-based twist on a classic, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for parties, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave a savory snack that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is what makes this Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe so delightfully delicious. Each component plays its part, whether it’s for flavor, texture, or that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen as you bake.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet / ~2 1/4 tsp): Essential for that perfect rise and soft texture of the breadsticks.
- Cane sugar (1 Tbsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory topping.
- Olive oil (2 Tbsp plus 1 Tbsp for coating): Brings richness and keeps the dough tender and moist.
- Sea salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the fresh basil notes.
- Unbleached all-purpose flour or whole-wheat pastry flour (2 1/2 to 3 cups): Forms the sturdy yet soft base of each breadstick.
- Vegan-friendly basil pesto (3 Tbsp): The star of the show; packed with basil’s bright herbaceous taste.
- Vegan parmesan cheese (3-4 Tbsp): Delivers that nutty, cheesy punch to top the breadsticks beautifully.
- Fresh basil (2 cups, tightly packed): For the pesto; nothing beats the freshness it brings.
- Raw walnuts or pine nuts (1/3 cup): Adds depth and creaminess to the pesto texture.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1/2 cup): Binds the pesto ingredients smoothly while infusing richness.
- Garlic cloves (4 large, chopped): Offers that irresistible aromatic kick in the pesto.
- Sea salt and black pepper (about 1/4 tsp each): Balance the flavors perfectly in the pesto.
- Lemon juice (1 Tbsp): Adds a bright, fresh zing that lifts the pesto and the overall dish.
How to Make Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Basil Pesto
Start by tossing the fresh basil, walnuts or pine nuts, chopped garlic, vegan parmesan, sea salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil into a food processor. Blend until nicely combined, but don’t overdo it—leaving a bit of texture in the pesto makes every bite interesting. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can keep this covered in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for longer. This pesto is what truly sets the tone for the entire breadstick experience.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of warm water (about 110 degrees Fahrenheit or warm like a pleasant bath). Sprinkle the dry yeast over the water and let it sit until it becomes foamy, about 5 minutes. This step ensures your yeast is alive and kicking, giving your breadsticks the perfect rise and fluffy texture.
Step 3: Mix and Knead the Dough
Once your yeast is bubbly, add the cane sugar, olive oil, and salt. Stir to combine, then gradually add the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon until a rough dough ball forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it by hand for 30 seconds to 1 minute until you have a smooth, springy ball. Don’t worry if it seems sticky at first — kneading will bring it together perfectly.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Oil your mixing bowl lightly and place the dough ball inside, turning it to coat with olive oil. Cover it with plastic wrap and set it somewhere warm to rise for about an hour. You’ll notice it doubling in size — this is when your breadsticks start their transformation into light, airy delights.
Step 5: Shape and Top the Breadsticks
After the dough has risen, cut it in half. Reserve one half for another use — it freezes beautifully or keeps for a few days in the fridge. Roll out the other half on a floured surface into a quarter-inch thick rectangle. Gently transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush the center generously with your vibrant vegan pesto. Sprinkle evenly with vegan parmesan cheese for that perfect savory finish. Feel free to add vegan mozzarella shreds if you want to take it over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop your prepared breadsticks into a preheated oven at 450 degrees Fahrenheit. In just 11 to 13 minutes, the edges will turn golden brown, and the cheesy topping will melt into bubbly perfection. Once out of the oven, slice and prepare to be delighted by every warm, flavorful bite.
How to Serve Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or extra vegan parmesan on top adds a fun pop of color and flavor right before serving. For a little extra zing, try a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
These breadsticks pair amazingly well with a bright, fresh salad, a bowl of tomato soup, or even a vibrant pasta dish. Their rich and herbaceous flavors balance well with lighter vegetable sides or tangy dips like hummus or a dairy-free ranch.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe into a fun appetizer by serving them stacked with a small bowl of pesto or marinara for dipping. You can also wrap a few breadsticks with vegan deli slices and fresh greens for a handheld snack that feels just a little bit fancy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover breadsticks (though with this recipe, it’s always rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, though you might want to reheat to bring back that crispiness.
Freezing
The dough halves that you set aside freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and proceed with shaping and baking.
Reheating
To revive the breadsticks, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes. This will warm them through and bring back their crispy exterior, just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought vegan pesto for this recipe?
Absolutely! While homemade pesto is fantastic for this recipe’s freshness, a high-quality store-bought vegan pesto works well, especially when you’re short on time.
What if I don’t have vegan parmesan cheese?
You can make your own by blending cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and salt until crumbly, or simply sprinkle extra nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor.
Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?
Gluten-free baking is a bit tricky with yeast dough, but you can experiment using a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads. The texture might differ slightly but will still be delicious!
How do I know when the breadsticks are fully baked?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbly, slightly browned vegan cheese on top. The breadsticks should feel firm on the outside but tender inside.
Can I add other toppings to these breadsticks?
Definitely! Feel free to add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, pine nuts, or vegan mozzarella for your own tasty twists on this base recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about mastering this Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe—it feels like a heartfelt gift straight from your kitchen to your table. Whether it’s a snack for friends or an accompaniment to dinner, these breadsticks are guaranteed to bring smiles with every bite. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy this delicious, plant-based treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
PrintVegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks Recipe
These Vegan Pesto Parmesan Breadsticks are a delicious, dairy-free twist on a classic favorite. Made with a soft, homemade dough and topped generously with vibrant vegan basil pesto and vegan parmesan cheese, they’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. The recipe is straightforward and delivers golden, flavorful breadsticks baked to perfection in just over half an hour.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 1 packet active dry yeast (approximately 2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 Tbsp cane sugar (or granulated sugar; can substitute maple syrup or honey if not vegan)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups unbleached all-purpose flour or whole-wheat pastry flour (a mix of both recommended)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
Pesto Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh basil (tightly packed, rinsed, and thoroughly dried)
- 1/3 cup raw walnuts or pine nuts
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 healthy pinch (~1/4 tsp) sea salt
- 1 healthy pinch (~1/4 tsp) black pepper
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 3 Tbsp vegan parmesan cheese
Topping
- 3–4 Tbsp vegan parmesan cheese
- Vegan pesto (as prepared)
Instructions
- Make the Pesto: Add the basil, walnuts or pine nuts, olive oil, chopped garlic, sea salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and vegan parmesan cheese to a food processor. Pulse and mix until everything is combined but retains some texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Store covered in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F or 43°C) with the active dry yeast. Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast. Let the mixture sit until it becomes foamy, approximately 5 minutes.
- Mix the Dough: To the yeast mixture, add cane sugar, olive oil, and sea salt, stirring to combine. Gradually add the flour, a little at a time, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough ball begins to form. You may not need all 3 cups; add flour until dough reaches a workable consistency.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the dough forms a smooth ball.
- First Rise: Clean out the mixing bowl and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the dough back into the bowl and turn it to coat with oil, leaving the seam side down. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare for Baking: Once risen, cut the dough in half. Reserve one half for later use (it can be frozen up to 3 months or refrigerated for a few days). Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Shape the Breadsticks: Roll out the remaining dough half on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Transfer this rectangle carefully onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: Leaving the edges bare, generously brush the dough rectangle with prepared vegan pesto. Evenly sprinkle the 3-4 tablespoons of vegan parmesan cheese on top. Optional additions: vegan mozzarella shreds such as Daiya. You may also substitute pesto with red sauce if preferred.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes or until the crust and cheese become golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oven, slice into breadsticks, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure water temperature for activating yeast is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Flour amounts may vary; add gradually to achieve a smooth, non-sticky dough.
- Reserving half the dough allows for a second batch or freezing for future use.
- Vegan pesto can be stored refrigerated for up to two weeks or frozen for longer.
- Optional toppings include vegan mozzarella shreds to add melty texture.
- Substitute maple syrup or honey for sugar if not strictly vegan.
- Baking times may slightly vary depending on oven calibration; watch for golden crust.
