Garlic Knots Recipe

Craving a warm, garlicky treat? These homemade Garlic Knots are soft, fluffy, and brushed with a savory garlic-parsley butter that makes them absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as a side for pasta or enjoying them as a snack, these knots are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients List

Making Garlic Knots requires a few key ingredients to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Let’s break down the components needed for the dough and the flavorful garlic topping.

Dough Ingredients:

• 1 cup water (heated to 110°F)
• 2 1/4 tsp instant dry yeast
• 2 tsp honey
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 1/2 – 3 cups all-purpose flour

Garlic Butter Topping:

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 5 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Required Kitchen Tools

Having the right kitchen tools will make the process of making Garlic Knots smooth and effortless. Here are the essentials:

1. Stand Mixer with Dough Hook – Helps knead the dough quickly and efficiently.
2. Mixing Bowls – For combining and proofing the dough.
3. Baking Sheets – Lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Pastry Brush – To evenly coat the garlic knots with the flavorful garlic butter.
5. Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter – For dividing the dough into equal portions.

Having these tools on hand will ensure that your Garlic Knots turn out perfectly every time.

Dough Preparation

The key to making soft and fluffy Garlic Knots lies in properly preparing the dough. Follow these steps to mix, knead, and let the dough rise for the perfect texture.

Mixing the Ingredients

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook attachment, add the warm water, yeast, and honey. Stir and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add 2 cups of flour, salt, and olive oil to the mixture. Mix on low speed for 3-4 minutes, until well combined.
3. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 – 1 cup of flour, a little at a time, until a smooth dough forms. The dough should pull away cleanly from the sides of the bowl but still feel soft.

Kneading and Letting the Dough Rise

1. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Once risen, punch down the dough to release air bubbles.

Shaping the Garlic Knots

Once your dough has risen, it’s time to shape the knots for baking. Follow these steps for a perfect batch:

1. Divide the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a 16-inch-long log.
2. Cut and Roll: Slice the dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rope (about 7 inches long).
3. Tie the Knot: Take each rope and tie it into a simple knot. Gently tuck the loose ends under the knot.
4. Second Rise: Place the knots onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with a towel, and let them rest for 30 minutes before baking.

Baking the Garlic Knots

The key to achieving golden, crispy, and fluffy Garlic Knots is baking them at the perfect temperature for the right amount of time. Follow these steps to bake your garlic knots to perfection.

Preheat and Prepare the Garlic Oil

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Garlic Oil: While the oven is heating up, make the garlic butter topping. In a small bowl, combine 5 tbsp olive oil, garlic powder, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.

Baking the Knots

1. Brush with Garlic Oil: Once the garlic knots have rested, brush half of the garlic oil mixture onto the tops of the knots. This will infuse them with flavor during baking.
2. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake the knots for 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
3. Final Garlic Coat: Remove the garlic knots from the oven and immediately brush the remaining garlic oil on top of them. This will add an extra layer of flavor and shine.

Serving and Decoration

Once your Garlic Knots are baked to golden perfection, it’s time to serve them! The finishing touches can elevate their flavor and appearance, making them an irresistible treat.

Suggested Toppings and Coatings

To add extra flavor and a delightful presentation, consider these optional toppings:

• Parmesan Cheese: Lightly sprinkle freshly grated parmesan on top for a savory, cheesy finish.
• Fresh Parsley: Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant color.
• Garlic Salt: For even more garlic flavor, sprinkle a bit of garlic salt on top after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Garlic Knots while they’re still warm for the best flavor. Pair them with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added enjoyment. These knots are the perfect side dish for pasta, pizza, or even as an appetizer at a party!

Storage Instructions

To enjoy your Garlic Knots later, you’ll need to store them properly:

How to Keep Garlic Knots Fresh

After baking, place the garlic knots in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing Garlic Knots

If you want to enjoy them even later, you can freeze them! Wrap the cooled knots in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.

Conclusion

Making Garlic Knots at home is a fun and rewarding experience that results in soft, flavorful knots with a savory garlic finish. With this recipe, you can enjoy these tasty treats fresh out of the oven in no time!

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, snack, or appetizer, these garlic knots will surely impress everyone at the table. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy these mouthwatering garlic delights!