In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let rest for 5 minutes.
Using a dough hook or wooden spoon/rubber spatula, stir in melted butter, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and 1 cup of all purpose flour.
Stir in another cup of flour.
Add another cup of flour, stir it in and then test the dough. Pinch the dough with your fingers, the dough should be smooth and a tad tacky, but it should not stick to your fingers when pinched.
If the dough is still too sticky, stir in an additional ¼ cup of flour at a time until it is smooth and only a bit tacky.
Bump up speed on mixer to medium and knead dough for 2 minutes, or knead by hand on a floured surface until dough is smooth.
Place dough in oiled bowl, cover with clean towel or plastic wrap. Place in a warm, draft free area for 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Once doubled, turn dough out on a lightly floured surface. Spread dough out into a rectangle and cut dough into 12 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a 5 inch rope and place on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Let the breadsticks rest in warm area while the oven preheats to 350°F, or at least 15 minutes.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and when tapped they sound hollow.
While the breadsticks are baking, melt the butter for the topping. Then stir the garlic powder into the melted butter.
Immediately brush the breadsticks with garlic butter. For extra flavor, sprinkle with Italian seasoning and grated parmesan cheese.