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Garlic Knots with Herb Butter

garlic knots with herb butter - featured image

Soft, chewy garlic knots brushed with a fragrant herb butter, perfect as a snack or side dish. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (360g), preferably unbleached
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup warm water (240ml), about 110°F (43°C)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (56g), softened
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
  2. Make the dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer with dough hook until combined.
  3. Knead the dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a mixer, knead on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
  4. Let it rise: Lightly oil the bowl, place dough inside, cover with towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the knots: Punch down dough, divide into 12 equal pieces (~2 oz each). Roll each into a 6-inch rope and tie into a loose knot, tucking ends underneath.
  6. Second rise: Place knots on lined baking sheet 1 inch apart, cover loosely, and let rest for 20-30 minutes.
  7. Prepare herb butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake knots for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Brush with herb butter: Immediately brush hot knots generously with herb butter. Optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Use warm water around 110°F to activate yeast properly. Knead dough until elastic but slightly tacky for softer knots. Allow both first and second rises for best texture. Brush herb butter immediately after baking for best flavor and glossy finish. Fresh herbs are preferred over dried for vibrant flavor. Store cooled knots in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic knots, herb butter, garlic bread, homemade bread, easy snack, party food, bread knots