Baked Garlic Knots are soft, fluffy little twists of dough baked to golden perfection and brushed with a rich garlic butter that smells like heaven. They have just the right amount of chewiness and a crispy outside that makes every bite so satisfying. You’ll notice that garlicky aroma filling your kitchen as they bake, making it impossible to wait for just one.
I love making these because they’re so simple but feel extra special. I like to add a little sprinkle of fresh parsley or parmesan on top for a little extra flavor and color. Sometimes I even dip them in marinara sauce or a creamy ranch—both are total crowd-pleasers. It’s a great way to turn simple bread into a snack or side that everyone asks for again and again.
Whenever I serve baked garlic knots, I usually pair them with a big bowl of pasta or a warm salad, but honestly, they can stand on their own as a tasty treat. They bring everyone to the table with smiles and hungry hands ready to grab another. They remind me of cozy family meals and sharing something delicious and homemade with the people I love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active dry yeast: This is what makes your knots rise and become fluffy. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast works too—just mix it straight with flour, no need to proof.
All-purpose flour: It gives structure and chewiness. For a lighter crumb, try bread flour or a mix of half all-purpose and half bread flour. For gluten-free, look for a blend that can be used 1:1 for baking.
Butter and garlic: These create the rich flavor and aroma. Use unsalted butter so you can control salt level. If you want a dairy-free option, olive oil or plant-based butter can swap in.
Parsley and Parmesan cheese: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; don’t substitute with dried parsley, it’s too mild. Parmesan is optional but gives nice umami—swap it for nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
How Can You Shape Garlic Knots Perfectly Every Time?
Shaping is simple but important for even baking and that classic look. Here’s how I do it:
- Divide dough into equal pieces to help them bake evenly.
- Roll each piece into a long rope (6-8 inches) on a floured surface so it doesn’t stick.
- Tie each rope into a loose knot—don’t pull too tight, or the dough will bake dense.
- Tuck the ends underneath so the knot holds shape and looks tidy.
- Place on the baking sheet with space between to allow for rising and spreading.
Taking your time to shape each knot gives you those beautiful soft centers and golden edges. And remember to generously brush with garlic butter before and after baking for the best flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I like using a large bowl for mixing dough and proofing because it gives plenty of room to rise.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get the perfect amounts for yeast, water, and ingredients.
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) – makes kneading easier and more consistent, but you can knead by hand just fine.
- Baking sheet or parchment-lined baking pan – provides a flat surface for the knots to bake evenly and easily clean up.
- Pastry brush – perfect for brushing garlic butter onto the knots for a beautiful, even coat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheesy knots: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or romano on top before baking for extra gooey flavor.
- Herb boost: Mix chopped basil, thyme, or oregano into the garlic butter for different herb notes.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for some heat.
- Stuffed knots: Fill the dough with small pieces of cooked sausage, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes before tying into knots for a flavorful twist.
How to Make Baked Garlic Knots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)
For The Garlic Butter:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Coarse salt or sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes total. Most of this time is waiting for the dough to rise (about 1 hour). The dough prep and shaping take about 20 minutes, and baking will take 15-18 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activating The Yeast:
Start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go.
2. Making The Dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir together until a dough starts to form. Then, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
3. Letting The Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Leave it in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size.
4. Shaping The Knots:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-8 inch rope, then tie each rope into a loose knot and tuck the ends underneath. Place the knots on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between them.
5. Preparing and Applying Garlic Butter:
Mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and half of the chopped parsley together. Brush this garlic butter generously over the knots before baking.
6. Baking and Finishing Touches:
Bake the knots for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. When they come out of the oven, immediately brush them again with the remaining garlic butter. If you like, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and extra parsley for a fresh, cheesy touch.
7. Serving:
Serve your warm, delicious garlic knots with your favorite marinara or dipping sauce. Enjoy every soft, buttery, garlic-filled bite!
Can I Use Frozen Dough to Make Garlic Knots?
Yes! If you have frozen pizza or bread dough, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and bring it to room temperature before shaping. This saves time and still gives great results.
How Should I Store Leftover Garlic Knots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make Garlic Knots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Shape the knots and let them rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed—just add a couple extra minutes to baking time since they’ll be cold.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Parsley?
If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley or other fresh herbs like basil or oregano. Just reduce the amount by half if using dried, as it’s more concentrated in flavor.