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Crispy Garlic Knots with Parmesan and Herb Butter

crispy garlic knots - featured image

These crispy garlic knots feature a golden, crunchy exterior with a soft, pillowy inside, brushed with a flavorful parmesan and herb butter. Perfect for a quick, comforting snack or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (440 grams)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (300 ml, about 110°F/43°C)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams), softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • ½ cup parmesan cheese (50 grams), finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 teaspoon fresh)
  • Pinch of salt, to taste
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
  • Optional: grated mozzarella for topping

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water (1 ¼ cups, 110°F/43°C), sugar (1 tablespoon), and active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons). Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour (3 ½ cups) and salt (1 teaspoon). Add the yeast mixture and olive oil (2 tablespoons). Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 6-7 minutes on medium speed. Add flour if sticky, a tablespoon at a time.
  4. First rise: Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours, until it doubles in size.
  5. Prepare the garlic herb butter: While the dough rises, mix softened butter (6 tablespoons) with minced garlic (4 cloves), grated parmesan (½ cup), chopped parsley (2 tablespoons), thyme (1 teaspoon), oregano (½ teaspoon), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined and set aside.
  6. Shape the knots: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 2 ounces or 55 grams each). Roll each piece into a 10-inch rope, then tie into a loose knot, tucking the ends underneath.
  7. Second rise: Place knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving 1-2 inches between each. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise for another 20-30 minutes until slightly puffed.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake knots for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  9. Brush with herb butter: As soon as the knots come out of the oven, brush them generously with the prepared garlic herb butter.
  10. Serve: Let knots cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Optionally serve with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

Keep butter soft but not melted for easy blending with herbs and garlic. For extra crispy bottoms, place baking sheet on the lowest oven rack. If butter is too cold to spread, warm in microwave for 10 seconds but do not melt completely. Let dough rise fully for best texture. Store leftovers in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

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