Garlic knots are like little clouds of buttery goodness that make your taste buds dance the cha-cha. Imagine biting into a warm knot of dough that’s been slathered in garlicky perfection and sprinkled with herbs. They’re the ultimate sidekick for pasta night or a cozy movie marathon; you’ll find yourself reaching for one more (and then another) until you realize dinner is just a side note.
The first time I made garlic knots, I accidentally created a mini Olympics in my kitchen when I dropped the dough on the floor. My dog thought it was a glorious treat while I contemplated whether to wipe it off or throw it away. Spoiler alert: we both won that day! Trust me; these little guys are worth every effort…and even the occasional mess.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-follow recipe ensures your garlic knots turn out perfectly fluffy every time
- The irresistible aroma of fresh-baked knots will have everyone flocking to your kitchen
- They are versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or side dish at any gathering
- Plus, they pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or enjoy them on their own!
One unforgettable night, my friend threw a movie marathon party where these garlic knots stole the show. Everyone was raving about them while I basked in my culinary glory.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our dough; use unbleached for better texture and flavor.
- Active Dry Yeast: Make sure it’s fresh for maximum fluffiness; check expiration dates before using.
- Warm Water: It should be around 110°F (43°C); too hot can kill the yeast.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor; it makes everything better.
- Sugar: Just a pinch helps activate the yeast and balances flavors.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the dough; don’t skip this step!
- Fresh Garlic: Mince plenty to ensure each bite bursts with garlicky goodness.
- Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley adds color and freshness to your knots.
- Melted Butter: For brushing on top after baking—trust me, it’s heavenly!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Dough: In a large bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over top and let it sit until foamy—about 5 minutes should do it.
Add Flour and Knead: Gradually stir in flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth.
First Rise: Place your dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled—around 1 hour works wonders.
Create Knots: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and divide into equal pieces. Roll each piece into ropes about 6 inches long, then tie them into knots.
Bake Your Knots: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Add Garlic Goodness: While baking, melt butter with minced garlic. Once out of the oven, brush this mixture generously over your crispy hot knots!
Enjoy your homemade garlic knots fresh out of the oven—they’re best enjoyed warm but still fantastic later!
You Must Know
- Garlic knots are the ultimate comfort food; warm, fluffy, and aromatic
- They bring a delightful aroma that’ll make your kitchen feel like an Italian pizzeria
- Perfect as a snack or side dish, they pair well with marinara sauce for dipping
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the dough first, letting it rise while you prepare the garlic butter mixture. This timing ensures everything is ready to bake at once.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with herbs like oregano or add Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Just remember: the more garlic, the merrier!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover garlic knots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your dough is not too sticky; add flour gradually until it’s smooth
- Resting your dough helps develop flavor and texture; patience is key!
- Don’t skimp on the garlic butter; it makes all the difference in taste!
My first attempt at making garlic knots was met with chaos—dough everywhere and even my cat got involved! But when they finally baked, they were a hit with my family.
FAQ
What are garlic knots?
Garlic knots are soft bread pieces tied into knots and coated in garlic butter.
Can I freeze garlic knots?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking for later enjoyment.
How long do garlic knots last?
Stored properly, they last up to three days in the fridge or longer if frozen.
Easy and Delicious Garlic Knots Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 garlic knots 1x
Description
Garlic knots are warm, fluffy bites of bread infused with garlic and herbs, perfect for snacking or as a side dish to elevate any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
- Gradually stir in flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Once risen, punch down the dough gently and divide into equal pieces. Roll each piece into ropes about 6 inches long and tie them into knots.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, melt butter with minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over hot knots after baking.
Notes
- Feel free to add herbs like oregano for extra flavor.
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated cheese on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 knot (25g)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg