Soft Onion Breadsticks

3/4 cup chopped onion
1 tablespoon oil
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (110-115 degrees)
1/2 cup warm milk (110-115 degrees)
2 eggs
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3 1/2 cups flour (up to 4 cups)
2 tablespoons cold water
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 tablespoon poppy seeds

In a skillet, saute onion in oil until tender; cool. In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add milk, 1 egg, butter, sugar, salt and 1 cup flour. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.

Stir in onion and enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl; turn once to grease top.

Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

Punch dough down. Let stand for 10 minutes. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into 32 pieces. Shape each piece into an 8-inch rope. Place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Cover and let rise for 15 minutes.

Beat cold water and remaining egg; brush over breadsticks. Sprinkle half with sesame seeds and half with poppy seeds.

Bake at 350ºF for 16-22 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks.