Garlic Knots

Garlic Knots feature soft, homemade dough tied into flavorful knots brushed with garlic butter, fresh parsley, and sprinkled with Parmesan and flaky sea salt. This easy bread recipe is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack and pairs well with pasta, soups, and salads. Made with simple ingredients and a quick rise time, these garlic knots bring classic Italian flavor to your table

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 3½ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Garlic Butter:

• 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings:

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Flaky sea salt

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Instructions

1. Warm the Liquids:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, combine water, melted butter, milk, and honey. Heat in the microwave for 1 minute, stirring well. Continue heating in 15-second intervals until the mixture reaches about 110°F (warm but not hot).
2. Activate the Yeast:
   Pour the warm liquid into the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle the yeast evenly over the surface and stir briefly with a fork. Let it rest for 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Mix the Dough:
   Add 3½ cups flour, salt, and garlic powder to the yeast mixture. Using the dough hook, mix on medium-low speed until combined. If the dough sticks to the bowl sides, gradually add more flour (up to 4 cups total) until the dough pulls away from the sides but remains slightly sticky. Continue mixing for 4–5 minutes until smooth.
4. First Rise:
   Shape the dough into a ball and transfer it to a greased bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let it rise for 15 minutes.
5. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Garlic Knots:
   Roll the dough into a roughly 16-inch log with even thickness. Cut into 15 or 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch rope and tie into a knot. Place knots on the baking sheet, tucking ends under or leaving them out. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise another 15 minutes.
7. Bake:
   Uncover and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Prepare Garlic Butter:
   While baking, whisk melted butter, parsley, and garlic powder together.
9. Brush and Finish:
   When the knots come out of the oven, immediately brush them with garlic butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and flaky sea salt.
10. Serve:
    Serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, fluffy knots with a crisp golden crust.
• Fresh garlic butter adds rich, savory flavor.
• Perfect for dipping or as a side to pasta and salads.

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Tips

• Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure liquid is the right temperature for yeast activation.
• Don’t over-flour the dough to keep knots soft and tender.
• Brush knots with butter while still hot for maximum flavor absorption.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute fresh garlic for garlic powder in the butter for a more intense garlic flavor.
• Add chopped rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter for a herbal twist.
• Use vegan butter to make this recipe dairy-free.

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FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough and refrigerate overnight. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze the garlic knots?
Yes, freeze baked knots in an airtight container and reheat in the oven before serving.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with marinara sauce or a creamy dipping sauce.
• Pair with pasta dishes, soups, or salads.
• Great addition to any Italian meal or party spread.