Name: Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
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; 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)

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Get ready to wow your taste buds and everyone around your table with these irresistible Garlic Knot Rolls. These golden, pillowy knots are brushed with a homemade garlic butter that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aroma even before you take your first bite. Whether you serve them as a snack, a side dish, or alongside your favorite pasta, this recipe brings together the heartiness of classic dinner rolls with the savory magic of garlic and herbs. There’s simply nothing like the thrill of tearing into a warm roll that’s soft on the inside, just slightly crisp on top, and utterly packed with garlicky flavor. Trust me, Garlic Knot Rolls are about to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in these Garlic Knot Rolls serves a delicious purpose, from building the dough’s structure to creating that signature buttery finish. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick trip through your spice rack, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to bring bakery-level rolls to your own table.

Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons, 1 packet): This is what gives your rolls that fluffy, airy lift—make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Warm water (1 cup, about 110°F): The perfect temperature activates the yeast and helps your dough rise beautifully.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): A little sweetness helps feed the yeast and creates a tender crumb.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds subtle depth of flavor and richness to the dough.
Salt (1 teaspoon for dough, 1/4 teaspoon for garlic butter): Brings out all those savory notes and balances every bite.
All-purpose flour (2 1/2 to 3 cups): The foundation of soft, chewy rolls; adjust for just the right dough texture.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, melted): Combined with garlic, it’s your ticket to that iconic, restaurant-style finish.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The star of the show, infusing every bite with its bold and aromatic flair.
Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Gives a pop of green and freshness that really brightens each roll.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping): Sprinkle on for a cheesy, savory crown that’s hard to resist.

How to Make Garlic Knot Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. When the mixture gets nice and foamy, you’ll know your yeast is ready to work its magic! If it doesn’t foam, it might be time for fresh yeast—this step ensures your Garlic Knot Rolls have the best rise and flavor possible.

Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough

Now, stir in the olive oil and salt before gradually adding flour, one cup at a time. Mix until a soft dough forms—don’t worry if it’s a little shaggy at first, just keep adding flour until it comes together. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This kneading step pumps air into the dough and forms that signature pillowy texture we love in homemade rolls.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place your beautiful dough ball in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and set aside somewhere warm. In about an hour, you’ll see it double in size—super satisfying! This rise develops flavor and creates those soft, airy layers inside each Garlic Knot Roll.

Step 4: Shape the Knots

Give the dough a playful punch-down, then divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 8 inches long and tie into a loose knot—no need for perfection, just have fun! Tuck the ends underneath and line the knots up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise again for 20 to 30 minutes; this second rise brings an extra fluffiness to your rolls.

Step 5: Bake until Golden

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake your knots for 12 to 15 minutes, until the tops are golden and the kitchen smells absolutely heavenly. The anticipation at this point is nearly unbearable, but hang in there—it’s almost garlic butter time!

Step 6: Brush with Garlic Butter

While the rolls finish in the oven, mix melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt. As soon as the Garlic Knot Rolls come out, brush them generously with this aromatic mixture so it soaks into every nook and cranny. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top while they’re still warm. Serve right away and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Garlic Knot Rolls

Garnishes

Once your Garlic Knot Rolls are fresh from the oven, a sprinkle of additional fresh parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese brings both color and zesty flavor. A little extra garlic butter drizzled on top never hurts, especially when you want every bite to be deeply savory and inviting.

Side Dishes

These rolls are a perfect match with practically any Italian-inspired meal. Serve them alongside a rich pasta dish, with hearty soups like minestrone or tomato basil, or even as a delicious accompaniment to a crisp Caesar salad. Garlic Knot Rolls also work wonders as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties—just pair with a warm marinara or your favorite dipping sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your warm Garlic Knot Rolls in a rustic breadbasket lined with a cozy cloth napkin, or circle them around a bowl of dip for a show-stopping centerpiece. You could even skewer smaller knots onto wooden sticks for an irresistible bread “bouquet.” However you present them, they’re guaranteed to attract plenty of eager hands!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If by some miracle you have any Garlic Knot Rolls left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Their irresistible aroma might tempt you to snack on them sooner, but they’ll still hold their soft, flavorful bite the next day.

Freezing

Want to stock up for the future? These rolls freeze beautifully! Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready for a garlic-knot treat, just pop them straight into the oven and they’ll taste freshly baked again.

Reheating

To recapture that just-baked experience, reheat thawed Garlic Knot Rolls in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. They’ll warm through, revive their garlic aroma, and regain their signature softness—almost like magic!

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to the first rise, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let it come to room temperature before shaping and proceeding with the recipe for the freshest Garlic Knot Rolls.

Do I have to use fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic packs the most punch, but you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch. The flavor won’t be quite as vibrant, but your rolls will still turn out absolutely delicious.

Can I make these vegan?

You sure can! Swap out the butter for vegan butter or extra olive oil, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. The Garlic Knot Rolls will still be soft, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.

Why did my rolls turn out dense?

Dense rolls are usually the result of under-kneading or using old yeast that didn’t activate properly. Always check your yeast for freshness and knead until the dough feels smooth and elastic for the best texture.

Can I add extra seasonings?

Definitely—feel free to experiment! Italian seasoning, dried oregano, or even a pinch of chili flakes can be stirred into the garlic butter for a fun twist. Make Garlic Knot Rolls your own with whatever flavors you love most.

Final Thoughts

Bring a basket of Garlic Knot Rolls to any meal and watch faces light up. This easy, rewarding recipe is proof that homemade bread can be both manageable and magical. Give it a try—you might find yourself making a double batch next time!

Garlic Knot Rolls Recipe

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4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Garlic Knot Rolls are a delightful combination of soft, fluffy bread infused with garlic herb butter. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, these homemade rolls are easy to make and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

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:

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)

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy. Add olive oil, salt, and gradually mix in flour. Knead into a soft dough.
Rise and Shape: Let the dough rise, then divide into 12 pieces. Roll each into a knot shape and let rise again.
Bake: Preheat oven, bake the rolls until golden brown.
Finish: Mix melted butter with garlic, parsley, salt. Brush over hot rolls and sprinkle with Parmesan.
Serve: Enjoy warm!