Homemade Garlic Knots Recipe

A Pillowy, Buttery Classic Straight from Your Oven – Made Entirely from Scratch

There are few things more universally irresistible than the warm, buttery aroma of fresh-baked garlic knots drifting through the kitchen. These little twists of golden dough, brushed with garlicky butter and sprinkled with herbs, don’t just accompany a meal—they elevate it. Whether served as a side with pizza, pasta, or soup, or enjoyed on their own straight from the baking tray, homemade garlic knots are one of the most satisfying breads you can make from scratch.

While garlic knots are now a staple at pizzerias and casual Italian restaurants, their origins are humble. First popularized in the New York City pizza scene as a way to use leftover pizza dough, they’ve grown into a beloved classic that deserves its place on any bread lover’s table. And while you can find decent garlic knots at the store or order them with delivery, nothing compares to making them at home—where you control every element, from the ingredients to the seasoning to the doneness.

This recipe isn’t just about twisting dough and brushing it with butter. It’s about learning how to work with yeast dough confidently, how to develop the soft, chewy structure that defines great garlic knots, and how to infuse them with layers of garlic, butter, olive oil, and herbs without overwhelming the balance of flavors. It’s about transforming a handful of simple pantry staples—flour, water, yeast, salt, oil—into something warm, fragrant, and completely comforting.

We’ll also cover creative variations (like stuffed garlic knots, spicy versions, or parmesan-crusted options), freezing and reheating methods, and how to prep them in advance for parties or weeknight dinners.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a first-timer working with yeast dough, this recipe is approachable, rewarding, and endlessly customizable. These garlic knots are guaranteed to disappear fast—so don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them more often than expected.

Let’s get started on the ultimate homemade garlic knot adventure—your kitchen is about to smell amazing.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make garlic knots that are perfectly soft, flavorful, and golden, having the right ingredients and tools is essential. Quality ingredients and proper technique combine to create the classic chewy texture and rich garlicky flavor that make these knots irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (preferably unbleached)

• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing)

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

• 4–6 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

• Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Whisk or fork (for mixing yeast)

• Stand mixer with dough hook attachment (optional but helpful)

• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap (for covering dough while rising)

• Baking sheet (preferably rimmed)

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

• Small saucepan (for melting butter)

• Pastry brush (for applying garlic butter)

• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine:

   • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)

   • 2 tablespoons sugar

   • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)

2. Stir gently to dissolve the yeast and sugar.

3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.

   • This indicates the yeast is active and ready to work.

   • If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be expired or water too hot/cold—start again.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • 4 cups all-purpose flour

   • 2 teaspoons salt

2. Make a well in the center, then pour in:

   • The activated yeast mixture

   • 2 tablespoons olive oil

3. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix until the dough just comes together.

4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

   • Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook to knead for 5–7 minutes on medium speed.

Step 3: First Rise (Proofing)

1. Lightly oil a large clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning to coat all sides.

2. Cover the bowl with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap.

3. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Garlic Knots

1. Gently punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles.

2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 24 equal pieces (about 1.5 ounces each).

3. Roll each piece into a 6-inch rope.

4. Tie each rope into a loose knot, tucking the ends underneath to keep a neat shape.

5. Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 1–2 inches between them to allow expansion.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover the shaped knots with a kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over low heat.

2. Add minced garlic and salt to the melted butter, cooking gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant (do not brown).

3. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 7: Bake the Garlic Knots

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Just before baking, brush the knots generously with the garlic butter.

3. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Remove from the oven and immediately brush with more garlic butter for maximum flavor and shine.

5. Optional: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot knots.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the garlic knots to a cooling rack for a few minutes to set slightly.

2. Serve warm alongside your favorite pasta, soup, or salad—or enjoy them on their own.