Name: Garlic Knots Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 1 h 3 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2-2 ⅓ cups bread flour* (divided); 1 packet instant yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons); 1 ½ teaspoons sugar; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 Tablespoons olive oil + additional for brushing; ¾ cup warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C); 4 Tablespoons salted butter; 3 cloves minced garlic (about 1 ½ Tablespoons); 1 Tablespoon minced fresh basil; Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 40 reviews

Let me introduce you to a game changer in homemade bread snacks: this Garlic Knots Recipe will transform your kitchen into a cozy Italian bakery. Soft, pillowy knots infused with garlic butter, fresh basil, and just the right touch of parmesan make these irresistible little bites perfect for sharing, dipping, or just munching solo. They’re straightforward to make but packed with so much flavor and warmth, it’s like giving your taste buds a big, flavorful hug. Get ready to fall in love with this delightful Garlic Knots Recipe that’s both comforting and oh-so-satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface: a large clear glass bowl filled with white flour sits at the top right, a small glass bowl of granulated salt is on the left side, beside it a salt shaker with a metal top, and a clear glass jar of light beige garlic powder is placed to the right. A small glass container filled with golden oil is near the center right with a whole white garlic bulb below it. Fresh green basil leaves are at the bottom right corner. On the left, a stick of pale yellow unsalted butter is placed above a triangular wedge of pale yellow Parmesan cheese in clear plastic wrap. A bright yellow packet of Fleischmann’s RapidRise Instant Yeast sits at the top left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Garlic Knots Recipe plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of texture, aroma, and taste. From the elasticity of the bread flour to the aromatic punch of fresh basil, every component is simple yet essential to elevate these knots.

Bread flour (2-2 ⅓ cups): Offers the ideal protein content for a chewy, elastic dough that holds knots perfectly.
Instant yeast (1 packet, 2 ¼ tsp): The magic behind the dough rising into fluffy, airy goodness.
Sugar (1 ½ tsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the garlic and salt.
Salt (¾ tsp): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the dough balanced.
Garlic powder (½ tsp): Gives a gentle garlic background note before the fresh garlic butter takes center stage.
Olive oil (2 tbsp + extra): Provides moisture, richness, and a beautiful sheen on the knots.
Warm water (¾ cup, 105-115F / 40-46C): Activates yeast and binds ingredients, ensuring your dough is soft but manageable.
Salted butter (4 tbsp): The base for an indulgent garlic butter that’s brushed over hot knots for maximum flavor.
Fresh garlic (3 cloves, minced): Bursts of intense garlic aroma and taste that make these knots unforgettable.
Fresh basil (1 tbsp, minced): Adds a layer of herbal brightness to contrast the richness of the butter.
Grated parmesan cheese (optional): A nutty, salty sprinkle to finish and elevate the dish.

How to Make Garlic Knots Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup and to keep those knots from sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of bread flour, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and garlic powder. This dry mix forms the base of our dough, evenly distributing flavors and ensuring consistent rising throughout.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough

Stir in olive oil and warm water using a wooden spoon until everything starts to come together. Then gradually add about 1 cup of flour more, mixing, and if needed, sprinkle in up to ⅓ cup extra flour until you get a tacky but manageable ball that pulls away from the bowl. This is the texture that guarantees soft yet sturdy knots.

Step 4: Oil and Rise

Brush a clean large bowl generously with olive oil using a pastry brush. Roll your dough in the oil so the entire surface is coated lightly, which prevents drying out. Cover with plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot (on top of the oven works great) for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Shape the Knots

After your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll into a 15-inch log. Cut into 9 even pieces, then roll each piece into an 8-inch rope. Tie each rope into a loose knot; it’s easier than you’d think and adds so much charm to these bites. Place the knots on your prepared baking sheet and optionally brush with olive oil for an extra golden crust.

Step 6: Second Rise

Let the knots rest for about 5 minutes at room temperature or on top of the oven; this second rise makes them even lighter when baked.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake the knots in your preheated oven for 13 minutes or until they begin turning a lovely golden brown. This is the moment when the outside crisps just enough while the inside stays pillowy soft.

Step 8: Make Garlic Butter

While the knots bake, melt the butter and garlic over medium-low heat in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally until the garlic is fragrant and buttery goodness starts to fill your kitchen. Remove from heat and stir in fresh minced basil for a fresh burst of flavor.

Step 9: Brush and Finish

As soon as your knots come out of the oven, generously brush them with the warm garlic butter mixture. If you love a little extra flair, sprinkle grated parmesan on top right away so it clings to the butter. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Knots Recipe

Several golden brown garlic knots rest on a light-colored baking tray lined with parchment paper, each knot showing a twisted and knotted dough with a soft, slightly shiny texture. Small chopped bits of fresh green parsley and garlic pieces are scattered and pressed gently into the tops and sides of the knots, giving a fresh herb look. The knots have a smooth surface with some light crusty areas and uneven shapes, positioned close to each other but not touching, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To really make these knots pop visually and in flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or additional grated parmesan just after brushing them with garlic butter. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a lovely kick if you’re feeling bold.

Side Dishes

These knots are the perfect accompaniment to a fresh garden salad, a warm bowl of marinara for dipping, or alongside hearty soups like tomato basil or minestrone. Their garlic and herb-rich profile pairs beautifully with Italian-inspired dishes or even a festive charcuterie board.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve the knots stacked in a rustic bread basket lined with a colorful kitchen towel or arrange them in a circular pattern on a wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, pesto, or spicy arrabbiata. It’s a simple touch that makes your presentation feel thoughtfully homemade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover garlic knots fresh by placing them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their delightful softness, add a slice of bread inside the container, which helps retain moisture.

Freezing

Garlic knots freeze beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them on the counter or warm them directly from the freezer.

Reheating

The best way to reheat garlic knots is to warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, which brings back that crispy exterior and soft center. You can also microwave them briefly, but that can sometimes make them a bit chewy, so oven reheating is definitely worth the wait.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that bread flour has higher protein content, which gives the knots their chewy texture, so all-purpose flour may result in slightly softer knots but still delicious.

Do I have to use fresh basil for the garlic butter?

Fresh basil really brightens the garlic butter with its herbal aroma, but if you don’t have any, dried basil or even fresh parsley can be a nice alternative. Just reduce the amount if you’re using dried since it’s more concentrated.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking your garlic knots. This method can actually deepen the flavor.

What if I don’t have a pastry brush?

No worries! Simply use a clean spoon or your fingers to drizzle and spread olive oil and garlic butter over the knots. The key is to make sure every knot gets a good coating.

Are garlic knots gluten-free?

Traditional garlic knots use bread flour, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, you’d need to use a specialized gluten-free flour blend and possibly adjust liquid amounts and rising times. It’s a fun experiment if you like gluten-free baking!

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Knots Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites for good reason — it’s a simple yet luxurious treat that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with warmth. Whether you’re serving them up for a party, a weeknight snack, or alongside your favorite meal, they never fail to delight. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to make garlic knots a beloved staple in your home too!