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The Ultimate Soft & Savory Garlic Parmesan Knots Recipe

Prepare to be amazed by these incredibly soft and utterly delicious Garlic Parmesan Knots! Boasting a rich, savory flavor that’s simply irresistible, these knots are designed to be a showstopper at any gathering. I recently brought a batch to a church dinner, and they vanished from the tray before they even made it to the buffet table. That’s how quickly people snatched them up!

Crafted from the softest enriched dough and generously coated with an addictively flavorful garlic butter and parmesan topping, these knots are guaranteed to become your new favorite roll recipe. What makes them even better is their incredible versatility: you can shape them into classic knots, simple rolls, or even elegant breadsticks. Get ready to impress everyone with this fantastic recipe!

Why You Need These Garlic Parmesan Knots in Your Life

Beyond their crowd-pleasing reputation, these Garlic Parmesan Knots offer a unique combination of qualities that set them apart. The dough is intentionally enriched, leading to an unparalleled softness and a delicate chew that makes every bite a delight. The robust garlic and sharp parmesan in the topping create a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the subtle sweetness of the dough. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or simply enjoyed on their own, these knots are a testament to the simple joy of homemade bread. They are simple enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for any special occasion.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Knots

Creating these sensational knots begins with understanding the role of each high-quality ingredient. Let’s explore what you’ll need to achieve that perfect taste and texture.

Flour: The Foundation of Softness

The type of flour you choose significantly impacts the final texture of your rolls. For optimal results, I always recommend a high-quality unbleached bread flour. Brands like @lehimills or @kingarthurflour (check their Instagram handles for product details) are fantastic choices. Bread flour, with its higher protein content, develops gluten more effectively, leading to that desirable soft and chewy texture that makes these knots so special.

Lehi Mills Bread Flour is my personal go-to. This local mill produces an exceptional unbleached enriched bread flour that consistently delivers outstanding results. If you decide to order online, don’t forget to use my affiliate coupon code AMBERSKITCHEN for a fantastic 10% off your purchase!

Salt: Enhancing Every Flavor

Salt is far more than just a seasoning; it plays a crucial role in bread making, enhancing flavor, controlling yeast activity, and strengthening gluten structure. If you’ve been following my culinary journey for a while, you know my deep affection for Redmond Real Salt!

I am quite particular about the salt I use in my baking. Redmond Real Salt fine sea salt is my preferred choice because it is packed with naturally-occurring trace minerals, is completely pure and unprocessed, and contains no fillers, anti-caking agents, additives, or unhealthy pollutants. Sourced from an ancient sea bed in central Utah, it is truly authentic sea salt. To make it more economical, I often purchase a 25-pound bulk bag every few years, storing it in convenient mason jars. This ensures I always have this incredible ingredient on hand.

As a bonus, my affiliate coupon code AMBERSKITCHEN will save you 15% on any Redmond products. Don’t miss out on adding this exceptional salt to your pantry!

Water: The Spark of Life for Yeast

Warm water is absolutely essential for activating the yeast, which in turn allows the bread to rise beautifully. The ideal temperature is crucial here: it should be warm enough to awaken the yeast but not so hot that it kills it. Think of it like a baby bottle – comfortably warm to the touch. Too cold, and the yeast won’t activate; too hot, and your dough won’t rise.

Sugar: Fueling the Rise and Softness

While adding sugar to a savory dough like these Garlic Parmesan Knots might seem a bit unusual, rest assured, it won’t make your rolls taste sweet! Its primary function is to act as food for the yeast. As the yeast consumes the sugar, it produces carbon dioxide, which creates air bubbles and causes the dough to expand and rise. This process is vital for light and airy rolls.

Beyond aiding the rise, sugar also contributes significantly to the dough’s incredibly soft texture. It helps retain moisture and keeps the rolls tender long after baking, making them enjoyable for longer.

Coconut Oil: The Secret to Supreme Tenderness

Coconut oil is my absolute favorite fat to use in bread and roll recipes. It consistently yields an exceptionally soft and tender dough that’s a joy to work with and even more enjoyable to eat. If coconut oil isn’t readily available, avocado oil can be a good substitute, and it will also produce great results. However, if you truly want to achieve that signature softness, I highly recommend sourcing coconut oil; it’s definitely worth the effort to pick up if you don’t already have it in your pantry.

Yeast: The Leavening Powerhouse

This recipe specifically calls for active dry yeast. I’ve incorporated a slightly larger amount than I typically use in my other bread recipes to ensure these rolls rise extra quickly, making them a fantastic option when you’re short on time. While active dry yeast is recommended, instant yeast would likely work as well, though you might need to adjust rising times slightly. Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s fresh and active for the best rise.

Crafting the Irresistible Parmesan Garlic Butter Topping

The magic of these rolls truly comes alive with their incredible garlic butter topping. Applied generously before baking, this savory coating ensures each knot is bursting with flavor and boasts a beautiful golden finish. To prepare this luscious topping, simply combine melted butter, salt, aromatic dried basil, and plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A second mention of salt here is a good reminder to taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference, as the salt content in Parmesan can vary.

Using a pastry brush, liberally coat the entire surface of each roll with this flavorful mixture before they go into the oven. It’s crucial to cover every inch, as any exposed dough might dry out slightly during baking, diminishing that perfect, delectable texture we’re aiming for.

Garlic Powder vs. Fresh Garlic

Are you a devoted garlic lover or someone who prefers a more subtle touch? While I often adore cooking with fresh garlic, for these particular rolls, garlic powder is my preferred choice. The reason is simple: garlic powder disperses more evenly, ensuring a consistent garlic flavor throughout each bite without the possibility of encountering large, uneven chunks of fresh garlic. This creates a smoother, more integrated taste experience.

Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic powder to suit your personal taste preferences. If you’re a true garlic aficionado, don’t hesitate to add a little extra!

Shaping Your Garlic Parmesan Masterpiece

One of the many delightful aspects of this recipe is its adaptability when it comes to shaping. You can transform these Garlic Parmesan Knots into any form you desire – they don’t even strictly need to be knots! I’ve successfully made them as classic round rolls, slender breadsticks, and, of course, charming knots. If you’re new to making dough knots, don’t be intimidated; it’s surprisingly simple! A basic knot can be formed by literally tying a strip of dough into a loose knot and tucking the ends neatly underneath.

For those who wish to achieve the visually stunning, intricate knot shape depicted in the photos, I highly recommend this short tutorial from King Arthur Flour. The process is quite straightforward: you roll a portion of dough into a 12-inch long “snake,” wrap one end around your hand, and then artfully weave the dough around the resulting circle, finishing by tucking the end into the middle. The final product often resembles a beautiful dough flower, adding an extra touch of elegance to your table.

Baking for Perfection and Storage Tips

Achieving perfectly golden and tender garlic knots requires careful attention during baking. Ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature, and keep an eye on the knots as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. They should be beautifully golden brown on top, indicating a delicious, cooked-through interior.

Serving and Reheating

These garlic knots are best served warm, ideally fresh from the oven. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until they’re soft and fragrant again, or use a toaster oven for quick crisping.

Freezing for Later

For longer storage, these knots freeze exceptionally well. Once completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen knots to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and reheat as directed above for freshly baked flavor.

Versatile Serving Suggestions for Your Garlic Parmesan Knots

These delectable garlic knots are incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal or gathering. Serve them warm as a delightful appetizer with a side of rich marinara sauce for dipping – a classic pairing that always hits the spot. Beyond appetizers, they make a fantastic accompaniment to a wide array of main courses.

Imagine them alongside a hearty pasta dish, complementing a robust soup, or serving as a flavorful bread option with a fresh salad. They are also perfect for soaking up delicious sauces from stews or roasts. Given the generous yield of this recipe, it’s ideal for entertaining! Bring them to a party, family gathering, or potluck, and watch as everyone raves about their amazing taste and texture. They’re guaranteed to be a conversation starter and a memorable addition to any menu.

Explore More of My Favorite Roll Recipes

Baking bread is truly my passion, and I have cultivated a collection of incredible roll recipes that I’m eager for you to try. If you loved these Garlic Parmesan Knots, you’re definitely going to want to explore some of these other fantastic options:

• Sage’s Perfect Potato Rolls: This cherished recipe from my sister is consistently one of the most popular on my blog. These rolls are unbelievably good, offering a unique tenderness and flavor.
• Fast Classic Dinner Rolls: Incredibly soft and utterly delicious, the best part about these rolls is that they can be prepared and ready to enjoy in just 90 minutes – perfect for a last-minute addition to any meal.
• Grandma’s Butter Rolls: A treasured family recipe that brings comfort and joy with every bite. These butter rolls are steeped in tradition and absolutely divine.

Happy Cooking!

I sincerely hope you enjoy making and savoring this Garlic Parmesan Knots recipe as much as I do. It’s truly a labor of love that yields incredibly rewarding results. If you’d like to keep up with my latest cooking adventures, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and new recipe creations, be sure to follow me on Instagram @AMBERSKITCHEN. I love connecting with fellow food enthusiasts!