In a stand mixer bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in a 1 cup warm water. Add the oil, egg, salt, 2 cups of flour and remaining sugar and water. Beat on medium speed with paddle attachment until smooth. Stir in remaining flour, enough to form a soft dough. Using the dough hook attachment, knead the bread on medium speed for 6-7 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled, which will take about 30-40 minutes. Punch the dough down. Turn it onto a floured surface and divide the dough into about 36 pieces. Shape each piece into a 6-8 inch rope. Place them onto greased baking sheets. Cover and let it rise until doubled, about 25 minutes. Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
In a small bowl, combine the butter, Parmesan cheese and garlic powder. Brush on the warm breadsticks, or serve it along side the breadsticks.
Notes
If the dough is still sticky after adding 5 cups of flour, keep adding flour, a 1/4 a cup at a time, until it forms a soft dough.