Garlic Knots Recipe – Soft, Buttery, and Flavor-Packed
If you love pizza or Italian cuisine, you’ll adore this garlic knots recipe. These soft, golden knots are brushed with buttery garlic sauce and sprinkled with fresh herbs, making them a perfect appetizer, side, or snack. Originating from Italian-American pizzerias, garlic knots are beloved for their airy texture and irresistible flavor.
Making garlic knots at home is easier than you think, and this recipe ensures soft, chewy knots with a perfect garlicky punch every time.
Ingredients (Makes 12 Garlic Knots)
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (300 g)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Activate yeast – In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare dough – In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise – Cover dough with a clean towel and let rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape knots – Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope (~6 inches) and tie into a knot.
- Second rise – Place knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise 20–30 minutes.
- Preheat oven – Heat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake knots – Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare garlic butter – While baking, melt butter in a small pan, add minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Simmer 1–2 minutes.
- Brush knots – Remove baked knots from oven and brush generously with garlic butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Rising Time: 1–1.5 hours
- Total Time: ~2 hours
- Serving Size: 1 garlic knot (makes 12)
Tips & Variations
- Cheesy garlic knots: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over knots before baking.
- Herb twist: Add rosemary or thyme to the dough for extra aroma.
- Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper to garlic butter.
- Make-ahead: Prepare dough the night before and refrigerate; bake the next day.
- Air fryer option: Bake small knots in an air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Nutrition Info (Per Garlic Knot – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Use 1 tbsp olive oil in dough and brush lightly with garlic butter.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Keto-Friendly: Use almond flour and mozzarella-based dough for low-carb knots.
- Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these garlic knots hot alongside pizza, pasta, or a fresh salad. They are perfect for parties, game nights, or as a cozy homemade treat. The combination of soft, airy dough with garlicky butter makes these irresistible every time.
Once you try this garlic knots recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions!
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I freeze garlic knots?
Yes! Freeze unbaked knots in a single layer. Thaw, let rise, then bake as usual.
Q2: Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Use the dough hook and knead for 6–8 minutes.
Q3: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works well; just skip the first rise.
Q4: How do I keep knots soft the next day?
Store in an airtight container and warm briefly in the oven before serving.
Q5: Can I add other toppings?
Yes! Try everything seasoning, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs for variety.
