Buttery Garlic Knots 🧈
Recipe 👇
Dough
1. 1 and 1/3 cup warm water
2. 2 tsp yeast
3. 1 tbsp Sugar
4. 3 cups flour, plus extra for kneading
5. 1 tsp salt
6. 2 tbsp olive oil
7. 1 eggs, for egg wash
Garlic Butter
1. 3/4 garlic cloves, chopped finely
2. 2 tbsp butter, melted
3. 1 tsp oregano
Procedure
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
• In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast.
• Stir lightly and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
• Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
• Mix until a dough forms, then transfer to a floured surface.
• Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Knots
• Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions (about 12–14 pieces).
• Roll each piece into a rope (6–7 inches long) and tie into a knot.
• Place knots on a lined baking tray, leaving space between each.
Step 4: Prepare Egg Wash & Garlic Butter
• Beat the egg and set aside for brushing.
• In a small bowl, mix melted butter, finely chopped garlic, and oregano.
Step 5: Bake
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Brush knots lightly with egg wash.
• Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 6: Finish with Garlic Butter
• While still warm, brush the knots generously with garlic butter.
• Serve immediately—soft, buttery, and fragrant!
Garlic knots are a delectable and popular bread choice that pairs beautifully with a variety of meals, especially pizza. Their soft, buttery texture combined with the rich flavor of garlic and oregano makes them a fantastic appetizer or side dish. One key to perfect garlic knots is activating the yeast properly, as outlined in the recipe. Using warm water and sugar creates an ideal environment for the yeast to froth, ensuring the dough rises well for a light and fluffy texture. Kneading the dough thoroughly for 8 to 10 minutes develops the gluten, providing elasticity and structure that holds the knots together during baking. When shaping the knots, make sure each rope is rolled evenly to about 6–7 inches to ensure uniform cooking. Tying the dough into tight knots helps trap air pockets inside, resulting in that light and tender crumb. The garlic butter topping is essential for flavor. Using fresh garlic finely chopped gives a pungent aroma and taste, while melted butter adds richness. Oregano adds a fragrant herbaceous note, reminiscent of classic Italian cuisine. Brushing the knots with an egg wash before baking contributes to a golden, shiny crust, making them visually appealing. Baking at 375°F for 15–18 minutes is optimal to achieve a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Serving the knots immediately after brushing with garlic butter ensures the buttery flavor is well absorbed and the knots remain warm and inviting. These knots can also be customized with additional herbs like parsley or parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Overall, this homemade garlic knots recipe is simple yet impressive, ideal for both beginners and seasoned home bakers. Whether enjoyed with soup, salad, or on their own, these garlic knots are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
