Make crispy gluten-free grissini two ways with a savory Parmesan herb dough or a classic tapioca flour dough topped with seeds.
Crisp, golden, and full of Italian-inspired flavor, this Crispy Gluten-Free Grissini Recipe gives you two delicious ways to make homemade Italian breadsticks. Choose savory Parmesan herb grissini with a rich, buttery flavor or classic tapioca flour grissini with a light, delicate crunch.
The Parmesan herb variation combines gluten-free oat flour, rice flours, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, black sesame seeds, and fresh thyme. The classic variation uses tapioca flour and cornstarch to create slender breadsticks that can be finished with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or your favorite gluten-free seasoning blend.
Homemade grissini are a wonderful addition to family dinners, holiday gatherings, and casual appetizer spreads. Serve these crispy gluten-free breadsticks with soup, salad, pasta, charcuterie, or an antipasto platter. They are also delicious with olive oil, marinara sauce, hummus, whipped ricotta, or soft cheeses.
Directions
Choose one grissini variation and follow the corresponding directions.
Option 1: Parmesan Herb Gluten-Free Grissini
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, white rice flour, brown rice flour, tapioca flour, and potato starch.
Step 3: Add the Butter
Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 4: Finish the Dough
Mix in the black sesame seeds and fresh thyme leaves. Gradually add the water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
If the dough is dry or crumbly, add a small amount of additional water until it holds together. Allow the dough to rest for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Shape the Grissini
Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long, thin breadstick approximately 6 to 7 inches long.
Arrange the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them. Melt the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of butter and brush it over the breadsticks.
Step 6: Bake the Parmesan Herb Grissini
Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and crisp.
Transfer the grissini to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely before serving.
Option 2: Classic Gluten-Free Grissini
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the tapioca flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Add the olive oil and warm water. Stir until a smooth, sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Shape the Grissini
Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Divide the chilled dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a long, thin breadstick.
Arrange the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the breadsticks generously with sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, poppy seeds, gluten-free everything bagel seasoning, or your preferred seed blend.
Gently press the toppings into the dough so they adhere.
Step 6: Bake the Classic Grissini
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are lightly golden and crisp around the edges.
Transfer the grissini to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. The breadsticks will continue to become crisp as they cool.
Notes
For extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the classic breadsticks before baking.
Fresh rosemary, oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning can replace the thyme in the Parmesan herb variation.
Everything bagel seasoning makes a flavorful topping that pairs especially well with soups and sandwiches. Check the package to confirm that the seasoning is gluten-free.
If either dough becomes too soft while you are shaping it, refrigerate it for an additional 10 minutes.
Store completely cooled grissini in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To restore their crisp texture, warm the breadsticks in a 300°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes.
Serve these breadsticks with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, marinara sauce, spinach dip, roasted red pepper hummus, whipped ricotta, bruschetta, or your favorite cheese board.
For a festive presentation, tie several cooled grissini together with kitchen twine and arrange them in a tall glass beside an appetizer spread.
When preparing this recipe for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, use oats labeled certified gluten-free. Check the cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, seasonings, and other packaged ingredients for appropriate gluten-free labeling. Prevent cross-contact by using clean equipment, utensils, and preparation surfaces.
