Twisted Garlic Breadsticks

I love the cool weather fall brings...it brings to mind my favorite soups simmering on the stove and fresh bread baking in the oven.  (Things I try to avoid in a hot summer kitchen.)  In celebration of the season...

1 cup warm water
3 teaspoons yeast
3 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups all purpose flour
1 tablespoon softened butter
1 clove garlic, minced
Parmesan cheese (optional)

Mix together the water, yeast and sugar.  When the yeast starts to bubble add the oil and salt. Stir well then add flour.  Knead on a floured board for 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.  Allow to rise in a warm place (i.e. oven with the oven light on) until it doubles in size.  Roll out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch in thickness.  Spread the butter over the rectangle and sprinkle with garlic and Parmesan cheese.  Make 10 cuts across the rectangle, horizontally.  Take one strip, put the ends together and twist it.  Lay on a greased baking sheet.  Repeat.  (You should have 10 breadsticks.)  Cover and allow to rise for about 20 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 F.  Bake for about 15 minutes, until bottom of breadstick is golden brown.  When it is done, remove from oven and, optionally, rub the top with butter.