Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe

If you love the irresistible aroma of garlic wafting through your home and the soft, pillowy texture of freshly baked bread, then this Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. These golden, buttery knots are slightly crispy on the outside yet tender and chewy inside, perfectly coated with a rich garlic butter sauce and sprinkled with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. Whether you need a crowd-pleasing side or a comforting snack, these garlic knot rolls will make your kitchen smell heavenly and your taste buds dance with joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking these irresistible Garlic Knot Rolls. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the softness imparted by the whole milk and butter to the flavor punch of garlic and Parmesan. Together, they create the perfect balance of taste and texture that makes this recipe a true showstopper.

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is melted with milk to create the base of the dough, adding richness without overwhelming flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk: Lukewarm to activate the yeast gently, it keeps the dough soft and tender.
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Eggs contribute to the dough’s structure and a tender crumb.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance savory flavors.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fine salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast: The powerhouse that helps the dough rise.
• 4 1/2 cups bread flour: Provides the necessary gluten for a chewy yet soft texture that holds its shape.
• 1 stick unsalted butter (for garlic coating): Melted with garlic and herbs to coat the baked knots with luscious flavor.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic amps up the flavor beautifully.
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced: Adds a fresh, herbal note and a pop of color.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic flavor in the coating.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the buttery garlic coating with a hint of savory depth.
• 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash): Creates a gorgeous golden sheen on the rolls as they bake.
• Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon): Sprinkled on top for a burst of texture and saltiness.
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated: A finishing touch that adds umami and a little crunch.
• Marinara sauce (optional, for serving): Perfect for dipping and amplifies the Italian-inspired experience.

How to Make Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by melting 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and mixing it with the whole milk, then cool it down until lukewarm—a crucial step that ensures your yeast wakes up gently and starts working its magic. Combine this mixture with lightly beaten eggs, sugar, fine salt, and instant yeast in a stand mixer. Begin by adding half the bread flour, mix to blend, then add the rest. Knead for 7 to 8 minutes until the dough feels smooth and elastic, which sets the foundation for those soft, chewy knots.

Step 2: First Rise

Transfer your dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a clean dish towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size—about 90 minutes. This rise is essential as it develops the dough’s lightness and flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Knots

Spray a 9×13 inch pan to prevent sticking. Punch down the risen dough gently to release the gas, then divide it into 15 equal pieces of approximately 70 grams each. Roll each piece into a 9-inch rope and tie them into classic knots, arranging them neatly in the pan. Cover and let them rise again for 45 to 60 minutes—the perfect time for the dough to get wonderfully airy and ready to bake.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Coating

While the knots are rising, melt a stick of unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—don’t let it burn, as that bitterness would overpower the rolls. Stir in freshly minced parsley, garlic powder, and fine sea salt, then remove from heat. This golden, garlicky butter is what transforms simple dough into something extraordinary.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the knot rolls with a beaten egg to develop a beautiful golden crust. Bake for 18 minutes or until they are puffed up and golden brown on top. The aroma filling your kitchen here is nearly impossible to resist!

Step 6: Finish with Garlic Butter and Parmesan

As soon as the rolls come out of the oven, brush them generously with the prepared garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top along with the grated Parmesan cheese. These finishing touches add rich layers of flavor and create a slightly crunchy, cheesy crust perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.

How to Serve Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Finish off your garlic knot rolls with a scattering of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese to brighten the presentation and flavor. For a little unexpected twist, a light dusting of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat that plays beautifully with the garlic.

Side Dishes

Garlic knot rolls shine alongside hearty Italian dishes like pasta with marinara or Alfredo sauce, soups, and salads. The buttery knots soak up sauces beautifully, making them ideal for dipping and complementing your main course with delightful, garlicky goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging the rolls in a circle on a wooden board, with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce in the center for dipping. For a party, serve them on a tiered platter alongside a variety of herb-infused butters and cheeses, inviting guests to customize their bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place your cooled leftover garlic knot rolls in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to keep them fresh. Stored this way, they will last up to 3 days at room temperature, perfect for enjoying a quick treat later.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap the cooled rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer bag. They maintain their flavor and texture well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To bring your garlic knot rolls back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave will do in a pinch, though it won’t preserve the crustiness as well.

FAQs

Can I use dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast. Just remember to proof it first in warm milk with sugar until it bubbles before adding to your other ingredients. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to work.

What if I don’t have bread flour? Can I use all-purpose flour?

All-purpose flour can work in a pinch, but bread flour gives better texture because of its higher protein content, which builds more gluten for a chewier, resilient knot. Using all-purpose may result in slightly softer rolls.

Is there a way to make these garlic knot rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil, replace milk with any non-dairy milk, and swap eggs for flax eggs or other vegan egg replacements. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will shift slightly, but they will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the garlic from burning in the butter mixture?

Cook the garlic gently over low heat just until fragrant, then immediately remove from heat. Garlic burns quickly and becomes bitter, so keep a close eye and avoid cooking it too long.

Can I add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough?

Definitely! Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano can be kneaded into the dough for an herby twist. Just adjust the amounts so they complement rather than overpower the garlic butter topping.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about pulling fresh, fragrant garlic knot rolls from the oven, warm and soft, ready to be devoured. This Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little homemade magic to your table, whether for family dinners, parties, or a cozy night in. Give it a try—you might just find yourself baking these tasty knots again and again.

Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 2 hours 58 minutes
• Yield: 15 garlic knot rolls 1x

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Description

These Garlic Knot Rolls are soft, buttery, and infused with rich garlic and herb flavors, perfect as a savory snack or a side with your favorite Italian dishes. Made with homemade yeast dough, brushed with a garlic butter coating, and sprinkled with Parmesan and flaky sea salt, these rolls are irresistibly delicious and perfect for sharing.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough:

• 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 cups (296 grams) whole milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fine salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
• 4 1/2 cups (572 grams) bread flour

Garlic Butter Coating:

• 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

Finishing:

• 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon), for sprinkling
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Dough: Melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter and mix it with whole milk, then cool the mixture to lukewarm. In a mixer bowl, combine the milk-butter mixture with lightly beaten eggs, granulated sugar, fine salt, and instant yeast. Add half of the bread flour and mix, then add the remaining flour and knead the dough for 7–8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, approximately 90 minutes.
3. Shape Knots: Lightly grease or spray a 9×13 inch baking pan. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 15 equal pieces, about 70 grams each. Roll each piece into a 9-inch rope, tie each into a knot, and arrange them spaced apart in the prepared pan. Cover and allow the knots to rise for 45 to 60 minutes until puffed.
4. Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic. Stir in the minced fresh parsley, garlic powder, and fine sea salt. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Preheat Oven and Egg Wash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush each risen knot lightly with the beaten egg to achieve a golden crust when baked.
6. Bake Rolls: Bake the knots in the preheated oven for about 18 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Finish and Serve: Immediately brush the warm rolls with the prepared garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle them generously with flaky sea salt and finely grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Notes

• Ensure the milk and butter mixture is lukewarm before adding yeast to avoid killing the yeast and ensure proper dough rising.
• The dough can be made a day ahead—after the first rise, refrigerate overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.
• Use fresh garlic and parsley for the best flavor in the garlic butter sauce.
• Flaky sea salt adds texture and a gourmet finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
• For a cheesier flavor, sprinkle extra Parmesan before baking or add mozzarella for melty centers.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian