These Cheese and Poppy Seed Biscuits are a delightful snack, perfect as an appetizer or to accompany soups and salads. With a soft yet crunchy texture and the rich flavor of melted cheese and poppy seeds, they make for a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat. Whether served warm or at room temperature, these homemade breadsticks are simple to make and incredibly satisfying.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• Lukewarm water: 100 ml
• Dry yeast: 5 g
• Sugar: 1 tsp
• Flour: 250 g (about 2 cups)
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Vegetable oil: 1 tbsp
• Poppy seeds: 1-2 tbsp
• Cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or any firm cheese): 50-70 g, grated
• Salt (for dough): 1/2 tsp
• Extra salt for sprinkling (optional)
• Additional water and oil mixture for brushing (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

• In a small bowl, combine 100 ml lukewarm water, 5 g of dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Stir well to dissolve the yeast, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.

2. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir the dry ingredients together to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt.
• Add the activated yeast mixture, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and start mixing until a rough dough forms. If the dough is too dry, you can add a little more lukewarm water, one tablespoon at a time.
• Once combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow it to rise slightly.

3. Shape the Breadsticks:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• After the dough has rested, roll it out into a rectangle about 1 cm thick on a floured surface.
• Brush the dough with a light layer of the water and oil mixture, then sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top, followed by the poppy seeds. You can also sprinkle extra salt if desired.
• Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips, approximately 1.5 cm wide and 12-15 cm long. Gently twist each strip several times before placing it onto the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake the Breadsticks:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Once baked, remove the biscuits from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving. You can brush them with a little extra oil for a shiny finish if desired.

Cooking Tips:

• Ensure the yeast is activated: If your yeast mixture doesn’t froth after 10 minutes, it may be inactive. Start over with fresh yeast to ensure your dough rises properly.
• Twisting the breadsticks: The twisting process not only gives the breadsticks a fun appearance but also helps the cheese and poppy seeds stick to the dough.
• Cheese options: You can use any firm cheese like cheddar, parmesan, or gouda for this recipe. For a more robust flavor, try a combination of different cheeses.
• Storage: These breadsticks are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If they lose their crispiness, you can pop them in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crunch.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Store the breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked breadsticks by wrapping them in aluminum foil or placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Breadstick):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 1 g

FAQs:

1. Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these biscuits. Just be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

2. What can I substitute for poppy seeds?
If you don’t have poppy seeds, you can use sesame seeds, flax seeds, or chia seeds as a substitute. Each will bring a slightly different flavor and texture to the biscuits.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or a mix of parmesan and cheddar. Hard cheeses tend to melt better and provide a rich flavor.

4. How can I make the breadsticks extra crispy?
To make the biscuits crispier, roll the dough thinner and bake for a few extra minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

5. Can I add herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the dough will enhance the flavor and make the biscuits more aromatic.

Conclusion:

These Cheese and Poppy Seed Breadsticks are a delightful and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a side dish, or a standalone treat, their cheesy, savory flavor and crisp texture are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe can be adapted to suit your taste. From using different cheeses to adding a variety of seeds or herbs, you can personalize these breadsticks to make them truly your own. Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, these buscuits are a warm and comforting addition to any meal.