Description
Soft and chewy garlic knots infused with rich, savory garlic butter, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish to complement pizza, pasta, salads, or soups. These homemade knots are easy to prepare with a simple yeast dough and flavorful garlic topping.
Ingredients
Dough
- ¾ cup warm water (105° to 115°F)
- 1½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 (¼-ounce) package active dry yeast
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (313g), plus more for kneading
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing bowl
Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or another 2 tablespoons olive oil)
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Flaky sea salt (optional)
- Grated Parmesan or Vegan Parmesan (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of warm water and sugar, then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy, indicating it is active.
- Prepare Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix together the flour and sea salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the remaining ½ cup warm water. Mix on medium-low speed for 5 to 6 minutes, until the dough forms a ball around the hook.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead several times, adding more flour if sticky, until smooth and elastic. Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, cover with plastic wrap, and set in a warm area to rise until doubled in size, about 40 to 60 minutes.
- Shape Knots: Preheat oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the risen dough and turn onto a floured surface. Divide into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a 9-inch rope. Tie each rope into a knot and tuck the ends underneath. Arrange the knots on the prepared baking sheet.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with grated garlic. Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Knots: Bake the knots in the preheated oven for 11 to 13 minutes, or until golden brown on the outside.
- Finish and Serve: Remove knots from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle with your choice of chopped parsley, flaky sea salt, grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan, and red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Serve warm.
Notes
- Water temperature is crucial for activating yeast; ensure it’s between 105° to 115°F to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with extra olive oil and use vegan Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Knots can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
- Feel free to customize toppings to your preference, such as adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the garlic butter.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian