The Best Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe: Soft, Fluffy & Utterly Irresistible!

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate homemade garlic knots! These incredibly soft and fluffy bread bites are made from scratch with a simple, easy-to-follow dough recipe. Each knot is generously brushed with a decadent melted garlic butter, baked until beautifully golden brown, and then finished with a delicate sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Perfect as an appetizer, a side for your favorite Italian meal, or simply a delicious snack, these garlic knots are sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

Why This Homemade Garlic Knot Recipe is a Must-Try

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There’s something uniquely satisfying about soft, buttery, and garlic-infused bread, and these garlic knots truly live up to the hype. This recipe stands out for several reasons, making it an absolute winner for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. First, the incredible texture: expect a delightfully chewy interior and a tender, slightly crisp exterior, all thanks to our carefully developed from-scratch dough. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory garlic and rich butter, creating an addictive flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its surprising simplicity and efficiency. You might think making bread from scratch is a lengthy process, but these garlic knots only require about 30 minutes of rising time. This means you can whip up a batch for dinner tonight without spending hours waiting for the dough to prove. Plus, you don’t need any fancy equipment; a large bowl and your own two hands are perfectly capable of creating these culinary masterpieces (though a stand mixer can certainly speed things up if you have one).

The result? Loads and loads of fluffy, aromatic garlic roll goodness that will fill your home with an irresistible aroma. They’re not just bread; they’re an experience, perfect for sharing with family and friends or indulging in a quiet moment of savory satisfaction. If you’re a fan of cheesy delights, you’ll also adore our garlic cheese rolls – they’re an irresistible variation of this recipe, stuffed with gooey, melty cheese. Pure swoon-worthy deliciousness!

What Exactly are Garlic Knots?

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For those new to the wonderful world of garlic knots, let’s dive into what makes these little bread delights so special. Garlic knots are a popular appetizer or side dish, particularly in Italian-American cuisine. They typically consist of small pieces of bread dough, often tied into a distinctive knot shape, baked until golden, and then drenched or tossed in a savory mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh herbs, usually parsley. Sometimes, they’re also sprinkled with Parmesan cheese, adding another layer of salty, umami flavor.

The origins of garlic knots are somewhat debated but are widely believed to have emerged in Italian-American pizzerias in New York City, likely as a creative way to use leftover pizza dough. Their popularity quickly soared due to their simple yet incredibly satisfying flavor profile. They offer a delightful contrast of textures – a soft, airy interior encased in a slightly crisp, buttery, and aromatic exterior. They’re often served warm, accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping, which perfectly complements their rich, garlicky taste.

Beyond being a pizzeria staple, homemade garlic knots are a fantastic addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering. They pair beautifully with pasta dishes, soups, salads, and virtually any main course that could benefit from a flavorful, carby side. Making them from scratch allows you to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking, ensuring the freshest and most delicious knots every time.

Ingredients You Will Need

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Crafting these delectable garlic knots requires a few basic ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. Using fresh, quality ingredients will elevate the flavor and texture of your homemade bread. For a complete list of precise measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

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Understanding your ingredients and their roles is key to successful baking. Here’s a closer look at the components of our garlic knot recipe and some helpful substitution tips:

DOUGH BASE: This recipe primarily utilizes regular all-purpose flour, which yields a wonderfully soft and airy dough. If you’re looking to incorporate whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor, we recommend a 50/50 blend with all-purpose flour. Substituting entirely with whole wheat flour can result in a denser, heavier roll, which might not achieve the desired fluffy texture of a classic garlic knot. Feel free to experiment with bread flour as well, which can give you a slightly chewier texture due to its higher protein content. When it comes to oil, olive oil adds a beautiful depth of flavor to baked goods that we particularly love, enhancing the overall savory profile of the knots. However, if olive oil isn’t on hand, vegetable oil or canola oil are perfectly acceptable neutral substitutes that won’t compromise the dough’s texture.

GARLIC BUTTER: The garlic butter is the heart and soul of these knots, infusing them with an irresistible aroma and taste. We use fresh crushed garlic for the most vibrant flavor. If you prefer a less intense garlic flavor, or simply don’t have fresh garlic available, you can easily omit the fresh cloves and instead add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the melted butter. This provides a milder, more evenly distributed garlic essence. For an extra touch of herbaceous freshness, don’t forget the fresh parsley, which adds a bright contrast to the rich butter and garlic.

YEAST: We call for instant yeast in this recipe, which is fantastic for its quick-acting properties, allowing for a shorter rise time. If you only have active dry yeast, you can still use it! Just be sure to “proof” it first. To do this, mix the active dry yeast with the warm water and a pinch of the sugar, then let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms the yeast is active before you proceed with adding the rest of the ingredients.

SWEETENER: A small amount of granulated sugar is included in the dough. This isn’t just for sweetness; it acts as food for the yeast, helping it activate and produce carbon dioxide, which gives the bread its light and airy texture. You won’t taste a sweet note in the finished savory knots.

SALT: Salt is crucial for flavor and also plays a role in controlling yeast activity and strengthening the gluten structure in the dough. Don’t skip it!

How to Make Delicious Garlic Knots From Scratch

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These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this incredible recipe. For your convenience, you can Jump to Recipe to access the printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions at the bottom of this post.

1. **Activate the Yeast:** Begin by adding the warm water to a large mixing bowl. Gently sprinkle the instant yeast evenly over the surface of the water. Allow it to sit undisturbed for a few minutes until it becomes visibly foamy, indicating that the yeast is active and ready. Once foamy, stir in the granulated sugar, garlic powder, melted unsalted butter, olive oil, and salt until well combined. This liquid mixture forms the flavorful base of your dough.
   

   
   

   
   

2. **Form and Knead the Dough:** Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients. You can do this by hand, mixing with a sturdy wooden spoon or your hands, or by using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then continue to knead for approximately 10 minutes. Kneading is crucial for developing the gluten, which gives the knots their characteristic chewiness and elasticity. Once adequately kneaded, the dough should be smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a cohesive ball, place it into a large bowl that has been lightly oiled with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and then cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out.
   

   
   

   
   

3. **First Rise:** Allow the dough to rise at room temperature until it has visibly doubled in size. With instant yeast, this process is relatively quick, usually taking about 30 minutes. A warm spot in your kitchen can help speed this along. This rise allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air pockets that contribute to the light and fluffy texture of the finished knots.
   

   
   

4. **Prepare for Baking and Shape the Knots:** While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking trays with silpat baking mats or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once the dough has risen, gently turn it out onto a clean, lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. The easiest way to do this is to roll the dough into a log and then cut it into even segments. Take each piece and roll it into a small, uniform ball.
   

   
   

   
   

5. **Tie the Knots:** Take each dough ball and roll it into a thin rope, approximately 8 inches long. The ropes should be relatively even in thickness. Then, carefully tie each dough rope into a simple knot. Don’t worry about perfection; rustic knots look just as charming! Arrange 8 of these dough knots on each of your prepared baking trays, ensuring they have enough space between them to expand during baking.
   

   
   

   
   

6. **Apply Initial Garlic Butter:** In a small bowl, thoroughly stir together the melted salted butter and the crushed fresh garlic. This aromatic mixture is what gives the knots their signature flavor. Spoon a generous amount of this garlic butter over the tops of the unbaked garlic knots on both trays. Be sure to reserve some of the garlic butter for brushing on after baking – this extra touch makes all the difference!
   

   
   

7. **Bake to Golden Perfection:** Place the baking trays into your preheated oven. Bake the garlic knots until they are beautifully golden brown on top and cooked through, which typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes. For even baking, remember to rotate the trays once halfway through the cooking time. This ensures all knots receive consistent heat and color.
8. **Final Touches:** Once baked, remove the garlic knots from the oven. Immediately brush the remaining reserved garlic butter over the warm knots. The heat will help the butter soak in beautifully. Then, generously sprinkle on the finely grated Parmesan cheese and minced fresh parsley. The residual heat will slightly melt the Parmesan and awaken the aroma of the herbs.
   

   
   

   
   

9. **Serve Warm:** These homemade garlic knots are best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair them with a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping – the tangy sauce is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, garlicky bread. Enjoy the irresistible aroma and flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Garlic Knots

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Serving Suggestions for Your Homemade Garlic Knots

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These versatile homemade garlic knots are more than just a delicious snack; they can elevate almost any meal! Their savory, buttery goodness makes them a perfect companion to a wide array of dishes. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, with an extra slather of garlic butter (if you dare!) and a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan. They are truly irresistible when dunked into a warm bowl of marinara sauce, creating a classic flavor combination that everyone loves.

Beyond marinara, consider serving these fluffy delights alongside a hearty homemade pizza night, complementing rich pasta dishes like lasagna or spaghetti with meatballs, or as a delightful absorbent for the broths of your favorite soups or stews, such as a robust Italian stew or even a simple chili. They also make a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board or a mezze platter, adding a warm, bready element that pairs well with cheeses, olives, and dips. For a more casual setting, serve them as an appetizer with a simple green salad for a light, satisfying meal.

More Irresistible Bread and Roll Recipes to Try

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If you’ve fallen in love with the art of making homemade bread and rolls, there are plenty more delicious recipes to explore:

• Flaky Homemade Biscuits
• Cheesy Parmesan Garlic Rolls
• Sweet Homemade Hawaiian Rolls
• Easy Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls
• Quick Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Twists

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