If you have a love for fresh, aromatic bread that melts in your mouth, then this Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These soft, buttery knots are packed with the perfect balance of garlic, parsley, and Parmesan, making each bite irresistibly flavorful. Whether you’re serving them alongside dinner or enjoying them as a snack, these rolls are a simple yet spectacular way to elevate your homemade bread game. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe uses a handful of simple, straightforward ingredients that work in harmony to create delightful rolls. Each element not only builds flavor and texture but also adds to the overall appeal and freshness of the final product.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Melted and mixed with milk to lend richness to the dough.
- Whole milk (1 1/4 cups): Provides moisture and tenderness.
- Large eggs (2, lightly beaten): Help bind the dough and add richness.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Fine salt (1 1/2 teaspoons): Balances flavor throughout the dough.
- Instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons, 1 packet): The powerhouse for a lovely rise and airy texture.
- Bread flour (4 1/2 cups): Gives the rolls structure and chewiness.
- Unsalted butter (1 stick for garlic coating): Creates that luscious, garlicky finish you’ll fall for.
- Garlic cloves (6, minced): Inject deep, flavorful punch in every bite.
- Fresh parsley (1/3 cup, minced): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.
- Garlic powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Intensifies the garlic flavor in the coating.
- Fine sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the seasoning of the garlic butter.
- Egg (1, lightly beaten for egg wash): Gives the knots a gorgeous golden shine.
- Flaky sea salt (to sprinkle): Adds a delightful crunch and bursts of saltiness.
- Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup, finely grated): Brings a nutty, savory finish to the rolls.
- Marinara sauce (optional): Perfect for dipping and serving alongside your rolls.
How to Make Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by melting the butter and mixing it with the milk, then let it cool to lukewarm. This temperature is just right to activate the yeast without killing it. Add the eggs, sugar, salt, and yeast to your mixer bowl, combining everything well. Gradually incorporate half the bread flour before adding the rest. Knead the dough for 7 to 8 minutes until it turns beautifully smooth and elastic. This step is crucial to develop the dough’s structure for soft, chewy rolls.
Step 2: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, which takes about 90 minutes. This slow rise gives the yeast plenty of time to do its magic, resulting in airy, fluffy knots that won’t disappoint.
Step 3: Shape the Knots
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to deflate it. Spray a 9×13-inch pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into 15 equal pieces, roughly 70 grams each for uniform rolls. Roll each piece into a 9-inch rope, then tie the ropes into classic knots. Place each knot in your prepared pan, cover, and let them rise again for 45 to 60 minutes. This second rise ensures the rolls achieve that perfect puffiness.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Coating
While your knots are rising, melt the stick of butter in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—this step develops the rich garlic aroma without burning it. Stir in the fresh parsley, garlic powder, and fine sea salt to season the butter. Set this flavorful garlic butter aside to brush on your knots later.
Step 5: Bake the Knots
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Just before baking, brush the knots with the lightly beaten egg wash to achieve that beautiful golden finish. Bake the rolls for about 18 minutes or until they’re golden brown and smell irresistibly amazing filling your kitchen.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the knots come out of the oven, brush them immediately with the warm garlic butter to soak in all those garlicky flavors. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and Parmesan cheese on top for bursts of crunch and savory goodness. Serve warm, paired with marinara sauce if you’d like a tangy dipping option. Now, that’s how you finish a winning Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe!
How to Serve Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe with garnishes like extra freshly minced parsley for a vibrant green touch and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an intense, cheesy kiss. A light drizzle of olive oil can add a subtle richness and shine, making your knots look as good as they taste.
Side Dishes
These garlic knots are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. They’re a natural match for Italian classics like lasagna, spaghetti Bolognese, or a hearty minestrone soup. You can also serve them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal that still satisfies your carb cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion or party, present your Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe in a large basket lined with a festive cloth napkin to keep them warm and inviting. You can also thread a few knots onto skewers for a fun, bite-sized bread “kebab” experience. Serving them with small bowls of flavored butters or a trio of dipping sauces makes for a visually appealing and interactive centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to keep the rolls soft. They will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature, perfect for quick snacks or reheated bread bowls for soup or salad.
Freezing
Garlic Knot Rolls freeze beautifully and are great to have on hand for last-minute cravings. Simply freeze them in a freezer-safe bag or container once completely cooled. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them up fresh. They’ll taste almost as good as newly baked!
Reheating
To reheat, brush the rolls lightly with melted butter and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This method revives their soft texture and crispy edges. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make bread chewy or tough.
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for instant yeast. Just be sure to proof it in warm water with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough, as active dry yeast needs activation.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.
How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?
The knots are done when they turn a deep golden brown and smell wonderfully fragrant. If you tap the bottom of a roll, it should sound hollow.
Can I add other herbs to the garlic butter?
Definitely! Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano can add unique twists to the garlic butter. Just adjust the quantities to your taste.
What can I serve instead of marinara sauce?
For dipping, try ranch dressing, a creamy alfredo sauce, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a different flavor profile that complements the garlic knots well.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like pulling a pan of warm, homemade Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe out of the oven and sharing them with those you love. They bring so much comfort and flavor to the table with relatively little effort. Whether you’re new to baking bread or a seasoned pro looking for a fresh favorite, these garlic knots will surely win your heart. Give this recipe a try, and watch these little knots become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 58 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Garlic Knot Rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with rich garlic and herb flavor. Perfect as a side for pasta or enjoyed on their own, these homemade rolls are tied into charming knots, brushed with a savory garlic butter, and baked to golden perfection. The recipe yields 15 delicious servings and includes an option to serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 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 and Serving
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
- Flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and mix with whole milk, allowing it to cool to lukewarm. In a mixer, combine this mixture with 2 lightly beaten eggs, granulated sugar, 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 smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 90 minutes.
- Shape the knots: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch pan. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 15 equal pieces (roughly 70 grams each). Roll each piece into a 9-inch rope, tie into a knot, and arrange them in the prepared pan. Cover and let rise again for 45–60 minutes.
- Make garlic butter: In a saucepan, melt 1 stick of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. Stir in minced parsley, garlic powder, and sea salt. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat and egg wash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the risen knotted rolls with the lightly beaten egg wash to help with browning and shine.
- Bake the rolls: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Brush the warm rolls generously with the prepared garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky sea salt and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Make sure the melted butter and milk mixture is lukewarm before adding yeast and eggs to avoid killing the yeast.
- Do not overcook the garlic in the butter as it can turn bitter; just cook until fragrant.
- If you prefer softer knots, brush them with additional melted butter after baking.
- These rolls freeze well; reheat in the oven before serving for best texture.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of garlic in the garlic butter coating.
