Homemade Breadsticks

Place the warm water in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast evenly over the water and let stand for 5 minutes to proof.

Add the oil, sugar, salt, milk, and two cups of the flour. With an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for 5 minutes or until the dough is stretchy. Stir in additional flour until a stiff dough is formed. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.

Knead the dough until smooth, about 10 minutes. Place in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Grease a baking sheet.

Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. Knead lightly then divide the dough into 12 equal sized pieces. Cover the pieces with a damp towel and let rest for 5 minutes.

Roll each dough piece out into a breadstick shape, about 1 foot long. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, about an inch apart. Brush the tops of the breadsticks lightly with oil and sprinkle evenly with caraway seeds, if using.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Let the dough rise for 20 minutes in a warm, draft-free place. Place the breadsticks in the oven and bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes. Serve warm or cool completely and store in an airtight container.