1 pkg. active dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water
1/4 cup dry mashed potato flakes
3 tbsp. sugar
3 tbsp. butter, melted
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 cup milk
2 eggs
3 1/4 to 3 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp. Italian seasoning (Rosemary, basil, oregano)
1 tbsp. butter, melted
sesame seeds
coarse sea salt
24 mozzarella sticks

In a glass measuring cup, heat water until lukewarm. Dissolve yeast in water.

In a small saucepan, heat milk until tiny bubbles form around edges; allow to cool.

In a large bowl, combine mashed potato flakes, sugar, 3 tablespoons of melted butter, salt and milk. Allow to cool until lukewarm. Add 1 egg, 1 egg yolk, and dissolved yeast. Stir.

Gradually add flour, stirring until a stiff dough forms (you may need more or less flour than called for).

Lightly dust a work surface with flour and knead by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 5-7 minutes). Alternatively, dough may be mixed and kneaded (3-4 minutes) using the dough hook of a stand mixer.

Transfer dough to a clean, oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume (about 1 to 1 1/2 hours).

When dough has risen to twice its original size, punch it down and roll the dough out into 2 14x12-inch rectangles on a lightly floured surface. Cut in half crosswise, then cut each half into 6 strips. Brush strips with butter, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Place a mozzarella stick on each strip.

Moisten edges. Fold sides to center and seal to enclose the mozzarella stick completely. Place on a greased baking sheet, seam side down.

Brush tops with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sesame seeds, herbs and a pinch of coarse sea salt.

Let sticks rise for 20-30 minutes. While they are rising, preheat oven to 450°F.

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and cheese inside has melted.

Pizza Sticks: Sprinkle chopped pepperoni over cheese sticks and spread inside of bread with pizza sauce before rolling up.

Ham and Cheese Sticks: Roll thinly sliced ham around cheese sticks. Spread bread with mustard before rolling up.

Snack sticks make a wonderful picnic take-along or lunch box filler. A perfect camping treat!