If you have ever bitten into warm, soft, and buttery bread infused with freshly minced garlic, you know the magic it brings to any meal. This Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe captures that very essence, delivering irresistible, golden knots that are perfectly chewy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, all kissed with an aromatic garlic butter glaze. Whether you serve these at a family dinner, a game night, or just as a tasty snack, they promise to become an instant favorite that everyone will keep coming back for.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step in creating these delightful garlic knots. Each element plays an essential role from the fluffy dough base to the rich and garlicky finish that makes these rolls unforgettable.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet): This is the secret behind the fluffy, airy texture of the rolls.
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F): Perfect warmth to activate the yeast and bring the dough to life.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle hint of sweetness to balance the garlic.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough for that tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and controls yeast activity.
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour: The structural backbone that creates the perfect chewiness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Essential for the luscious garlic butter coating.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Delivers that unmistakable sharp, aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the buttery glaze.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (for garlic butter): Balances the garlic butter and intensifies flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping): Gives an extra layer of savory richness and a lovely finish.
How to Make Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes until you see that bubbly, foamy layer on top. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic on your dough.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Once your yeast mixture is foamy, stir in olive oil and salt. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time. Mix until a soft dough forms that holds together but isn’t sticky. This slow incorporation helps you feel the perfect dough texture as it develops.
Step 3: Knead Until Smooth
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead vigorously for 6 to 8 minutes. You want a smooth, elastic dough that springs back gently when poked. Kneading really develops the gluten, giving you those tender, chewy rolls everyone adores.
Step 4: First Rise
Lightly grease a large bowl and place your dough inside, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm spot for about an hour to let it double in size. This rise is when all the yeast magic happens, creating the airy texture you crave.
Step 5: Shape the Knots
After the dough has doubled, punch it down to release excess air and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope roughly 8 to 10 inches long, then loosely tie into a knot—tucking the ends underneath to keep everything neat.
Step 6: Second Rise
Place your beautifully knotted rolls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space in between. Cover and let them rise for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. They’ll puff up even more, promising a light and fluffy bite after baking.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the knots for 12 to 15 minutes until they reach a gorgeous golden brown color on top. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is a delightful preview of the wonderful flavors to come.
Step 8: Garlic Butter Glaze
While the rolls bake, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush this flavorful garlic butter over each one generously. For an extra touch of indulgence, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese right after glazing.
How to Serve Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Adding freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil right before serving amps up the color and adds refreshing brightness that cuts through the buttery richness of the garlic knots. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes can add a savory or spicy twist that makes these rolls even more exciting.
Side Dishes
Garlic Knot Rolls pair beautifully with Italian classics such as pasta marinara, hearty minestrone soup, or a fresh Caesar salad. Their soft texture makes them perfect for dipping into rich sauces or soups, turning your meal into a comforting and satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun gathering, arrange your garlic knots in a circular pattern on a serving platter with a small bowl of marinara or garlic aioli in the center for dipping. You can even stuff them with cheese before tying for a delectable surprise inside. The possibilities are endless and sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover garlic knot rolls are best stored in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with foil at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days. To bring back some of their original softness, warm them gently before serving.
Freezing
If you want to savor these delicious rolls later, freeze them once fully cooled. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or leftover garlic knot rolls by placing them in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This method crisps up the outside while keeping the inside soft and warm, as fresh as when first baked.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used in this Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe. Since it dissolves faster, just mix it directly with the flour and reduce the initial waiting time. The rest of the steps remain the same.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning in the butter glaze?
Mix the minced garlic into the melted butter while it’s still warm but not too hot, then brush it onto the rolls after baking rather than during. This keeps the garlic fresh and aromatic without turning bitter or burnt.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Yes! Adding dried Italian seasoning, rosemary, or even cracked black pepper to the dough is a fantastic way to customize your rolls and infuse them with more complexity. Just mix them in with the flour before kneading.
Are these rolls suitable for freeze-ahead meal prep?
They’re perfect for prepping ahead. Make the rolls up to the baking step, then freeze them on the baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a bag. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve instead of Parmesan on top?
If you’re not a fan of Parmesan or want a different flavor, try sprinkling smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, or finely chopped herbs. Each adds its own twist while complementing the garlic butter beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Making this Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe at home is not only rewarding but creates warm, comforting bites perfect for sharing. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a charming addition to any meal or occasion. I’m honestly thrilled every time I pull these golden knots from the oven, and I hope you enjoy them just as much. So grab your flour and garlic, and get ready to bake some magic!
Print
Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour 30 minutes rise time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious homemade Garlic Knot Rolls made with a soft, fluffy dough perfectly flavored with garlic butter and fresh parsley. These easy-to-make, golden-baked rolls are a wonderful side dish or appetizer that pairs beautifully with Italian-American meals.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
Garlic Butter Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make Dough: Add olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms that is not too sticky but still pliable.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, which helps develop the gluten for structure.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap, and leave it in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until the dough doubles in size, allowing it to become airy and light.
- Shape Knots: Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and tie it into a loose knot, tucking both ends underneath to form the traditional garlic knot shape.
- Second Rise: Arrange the knotted dough pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them and let rise for an additional 20 to 30 minutes to puff slightly before baking.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat while the dough is rising.
- Bake Rolls: Bake the knots in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: While the rolls bake, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon salt to create a flavorful topping.
- Brush and Serve: Remove the hot garlic knots from the oven and immediately brush them with the garlic butter mixture. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve warm to enjoy the full flavor and softness.
Notes
- These garlic knots freeze well after baking—reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes for best results.
- You can add Italian seasoning to the garlic butter for an extra flavor boost.
