Easy Homemade Garlic Knots: Simple Warm Recipe (Print Version)
Easy Homemade Garlic Knots are simple to make! Get bakery-style flavor in your kitchen with this quick recipe, perfect for dipping or a tasty snack. So easy!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 Knots
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Dough Essentials
01 -
2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour
02 -
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
03 -
¾ cup (180ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
04 -
1 tsp granulated sugar
05 -
2 tbsp olive oil
06 -
1 tsp fine sea salt
→ Garlic Butter Boosters
07 -
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
08 -
4-6 cloves fresh garlic, minced (or more, honestly!)
09 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
10 -
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Finishing Touches
11 -
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it looks foamy – that means your yeast is alive and happy! If it doesn't foam, your yeast might be old or the water was too hot/cold, and honestly, that's happened to me, a real bummer. Then, stir in the olive oil and salt. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. It’ll look a bit messy, don’t worry!
02 -
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. This is where I sometimes get flour everywhere, a true kitchen chaos moment! If it's too sticky, add a tiny bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much, or your knots will be tough. You're looking for a dough that springs back when poked. It should feel soft and pliable, a real joy to work with.
03 -
Lightly oil the same large bowl, place the dough in it, and turn to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. I sometimes put it in my oven with just the light on. Don't rush this part; patience is key for fluffy easy homemade garlic knots!
04 -
Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-8 inch rope, then tie it into a loose knot. It doesn't have to be perfect; mine rarely are! This part always reminds me of playing with playdough, a simple, satisfying task. Arrange the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them.
05 -
Cover the shaped knots loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise again for another 30-45 minutes, or until visibly puffy. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) during the last 15 minutes of the rise. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. They should smell absolutely incredible, filling your kitchen with that warm, bready aroma. Seriously, this is when the anticipation really builds!
06 -
While the knots are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant – don't let the garlic burn, or it'll taste