There’s something utterly comforting about warm, buttery bread that melts in your mouth—and these Garlic Butter Knots are exactly that kind of magic. One afternoon, craving a snack that felt indulgent yet simple, I whipped up a batch using just a handful of ingredients. The aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled my kitchen, making it impossible to wait even a minute before tasting. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms basic dough into bite-sized, flavor-packed knots that steal the show at any gathering or family dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone tired of fast food, these Garlic Butter Knots deliver big on flavor with minimal fuss—and trust me, once you try them, they’ll become your go-to comfort food too!

Why try this Garlic Butter Knots Recipe?

Warm comfort: These knots bring the cozy feeling of fresh-baked bread right to your table. Simple ingredients: Just a few pantry staples create an irresistible flavor. Quick to make: Perfect for busy cooks craving homemade goodness without the hassle. Flavor-packed: Butter and garlic combine for mouthwatering richness. Versatile crowd-pleaser: Ideal as a snack, side, or party favorite. Easy to shape: Fun to make and even better to eat!

Garlic Butter Knots Recipe Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Use fresh flour for a soft, tender knot texture.
Active dry yeast – This magical ingredient helps the dough rise beautifully.
Warm water – Slightly warm to activate the yeast without killing it.
Granulated sugar – Feeds the yeast for a perfect rise and subtle sweetness.
Salt – Balances flavors and enhances the dough’s complexity.
Olive oil – Adds moisture and a subtle fruity note to the dough.

For the Garlic Butter Topping

Unsalted butter – Melts into every crevice for rich, comforting flavor.
Fresh garlic – Mince finely to infuse the knots with aromatic punch.
Fresh parsley – Chopped for a bright, herby finish and color pop.
Grated Parmesan cheese – Optional; sprinkles a salty, nutty depth.

This Garlic Butter Knots Recipe blends simple pantry staples to create an unforgettable homemade treat bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness.

How to Make Garlic Butter Knots Recipe

Bloom yeast: Combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl; let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Mix dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture; stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

Shape knots: Punch down the risen dough, divide into 12 equal pieces, roll each piece into an 8-inch rope, tie into a knot, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second rise: Cover the knots loosely with a tea towel and let them rest until puffy, about 30 minutes, while you preheat the oven to 375°F.
Bake: Brush each knot with melted butter, then bake in the preheated oven at 375°F for 20–22 minutes, until they’re golden brown and aromatic.
Glaze: Melt butter with minced garlic and chopped parsley in a small saucepan over low heat until fragrant; drizzle generously over warm knots and sprinkle Parmesan if desired.

Optional: Serve with marinara dipping sauce for tangy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Knots?

Experience the delightful pairing of warm, buttery knots with your favorite sides and drinks for a satisfying meal.

Tomato Basil Soup: The rich, tangy flavors of tomato soup create a comforting dip for the buttery knots. Picture the warmth of the soup harmonizing with the savoury garlic butter—pure bliss!
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy dressing brings freshness and crunch, perfectly balancing the knots’ richness. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies, with their caramelized sweetness, add a nutritious touch while complementing the buttery garlic flavors beautifully. Dive into a bowl of vibrant colors and tastes that brighten any meal.
Marinara Sauce: Offer a side of tangy marinara for dipping! The acidity cuts through the richness of the knots, creating a delightful explosion of flavors—your taste buds will thank you.
Garlic Parmesan Wings: Keep the garlic theme going with crispy wings slathered in a garlic Parmesan sauce. This hearty pairing will impress guests and satiate cravings at any gathering.
White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the buttery profile of the knots while providing a refreshing break with every bite.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in rich chocolate lava cake. The sweet, molten center contrasts with the savory knots, making for an unforgettable finale to your meal.

Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Knots Recipe

Enhance your Garlic Butter Knots with these delightful twists that will tickle your taste buds and add unique flair to every batch!

Herb-Infused: Add dried oregano or basil to the dough for an aromatic burst of Mediterranean flavor that elevates these knots. The herbs blend beautifully with the garlic for a savory delight.
Cheddar Explosion: Mix in shredded cheddar cheese into the dough for a cheesy, gooey center that oozes rich flavor, taking these knots to cheesy heaven. Your guests will adore the cheesy surprise!
Spicy Kick: Toss in crushed red pepper flakes with the garlic butter for a zesty kick. This fiery addition transforms your Garlic Butter Knots into an unexpected treat that bold flavor lovers will relish.
Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nutty twist and a bit of extra fiber. The earthy flavor adds depth, making the knots more wholesome while still keeping them delicious.
Garlic Parmesan: For extra flavor, mix grated Parmesan cheese into the garlic butter topping before glazing the knots. This creates a cheesy, savory crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Sweet Twist: Sprinkle cinnamon and a bit of sugar to the dough for a subtly sweet edition that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s a delightful alternative that makes for a unique snack.
Vegan Version: Swap butter for vegan margarine and use almond milk to replace any animal-derived ingredients, making these knots dairy-free yet delightfully indulgent. Who says vegan treats can’t be comforting?
Onion Variation: Include finely chopped green onions in the garlic butter mix for an extra layer of flavor. The green onions provide a fresh crunch that harmonizes beautifully with the garlic.

Experimenting with these variations allows you to create a personal touch that suits your taste preferences and makes your Garlic Butter Knots a cherished family favorite!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Knots

Room Temperature: Store leftover Garlic Butter Knots in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness.

Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, place knots in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the knots in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F until warm.

Reheating: For revived flavor, brush with a little melted butter before reheating to enhance the garlic aroma and keep them soft.

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Knots Recipe

Activate yeast properly: Use warm water (about 100°F) to bloom the yeast; too hot or cold water can prevent rising.
Knead just right: Knead until smooth and elastic to develop gluten—under-kneading leads to dense knots, over-kneading can toughen them.
Let dough rise fully: Give the dough enough time to double in size; rushing this step results in dense, less fluffy knots.
Shape knots consistently: Aim for uniform ropes and knots to ensure even baking and a beautiful presentation.
Brush generously: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter glaze—it’s the flavor star that makes these knots so irresistible.
Serve warm: Garlic Butter Knots taste best fresh from the oven or gently reheated to keep that buttery, garlicky magic alive.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Butter Knots are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked bread with minimal effort on busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply complete steps one through three, then cover the dough tightly and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes until slightly puffy before shaping into knots. Additionally, the shaped knots can be left to rise for up to 3 days in the fridge, just cover them with plastic wrap. To maintain their texture and prevent them from drying out, ensure they are well-wrapped. When it’s time to serve, brush with melted garlic butter and bake, delivering that irresistible Garlic Butter Knots Recipe freshness right to your table!

Garlic Butter Knots Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my yeast is still good for Garlic Butter Knots?
Check that your yeast foams during the blooming process—if it stays flat and doesn’t bubble in warm water with sugar after 5 minutes, it’s probably expired or inactive and won’t help your dough rise properly.

What’s the best way to store leftover Garlic Butter Knots?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep that fresh-baked softness. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days—just warm them in the oven before serving to revive the buttery garlic aroma.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Knots, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze your knots for up to 3 months. First, cool them completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a resealable freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a 375°F oven straight from the freezer until warm and golden, brushing with melted butter for extra flavor.

My knots turned out dense rather than fluffy. What went wrong?
This usually happens if the dough wasn’t kneaded enough or didn’t rise long enough. Make sure to knead until smooth and elastic—usually about 8 minutes—and allow the dough to double in size during the first rise. Also, water that’s too hot or cold can kill the yeast, preventing proper rising.

Are Garlic Butter Knots safe for pets?
While these are delicious for us, the garlic and butter can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s best to keep Garlic Butter Knots away from pets to avoid any digestive upset or more serious health issues. For pet-friendly treats, consider plain, unsalted bread sticks made without garlic or butter.