Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots: A Buttery, Cheesy Delight

For the garlic parmesan topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir it gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to make your dough rise.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a small well in the center, and pour in the yeast mixture along with olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until they form a sticky dough.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Once the dough is ready, place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a damp kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Shape the Knots

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Then, transfer the dough to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle shape, about 1/2 inch thick. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide.

Take each strip and tie it into a knot, tucking the ends under to secure the shape. Place the formed knots onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake the Knots

Brush the tops of the dough knots with some melted butter to help them brown beautifully in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and puffed up.

Step 5: Prepare the Parmesan Garlic Topping

While the knots are baking, prepare the garlic parmesan topping. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parmesan cheese, and salt. If desired, stir in some fresh parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor.

Step 6: Coat the Knots in Garlic Butter

Once the garlic knots are baked to golden perfection, remove them from the oven and immediately brush them with the garlic parmesan butter mixture. Make sure to coat each knot generously, so every bite is packed with that irresistible garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your warm, cheesy garlic knots fresh out of the oven with a side of marinara sauce for dipping (optional). These knots are best enjoyed immediately when they’re still warm, but they can also be reheated if needed.

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Knots

1. Don’t Skip the Yeast Activation: Ensure the yeast mixture becomes frothy before adding it to the dough. This step guarantees your dough will rise perfectly.
2. Let the Dough Rise: Allow the dough to rise fully to achieve soft, airy knots. Don’t rush this step, as it gives the dough its light and fluffy texture.
3. Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the garlic knots the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable, but fresh garlic is highly recommended.
4. Use Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a lovely color and flavor to the garlic knots. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can skip it or substitute with dried herbs.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. The next day, simply shape, bake, and brush with garlic butter.
6. Add Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle a little extra parmesan cheese on top of the garlic knots before baking them. This will create an extra cheesy crust on top!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots

These Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots offer the perfect balance of savory flavors—rich, buttery, garlicky, and cheesy—all in one bite. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft, fluffy interior that’s irresistible. Whether you’re pairing them with a hearty pasta dish, serving them as a party appetizer, or enjoying them as a comforting snack on their own, these garlic knots are guaranteed to be a hit.

The best part? They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. The versatility of this recipe also means you can play around with different herbs and cheeses, making them your own unique creation.

If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, Warm Parmesan Garlic Knots should be at the top of your list. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in one of the most deliciously comforting treats you’ll ever make.