Lu-Ann Simon May 24, 2026

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Sourdough Garlic Knots

Name: Sourdough Garlic Knots
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 125 g filtered water; 100 g sourdough starter, at its peak; 325 g bread flour; 10 g sea salt; 50 g butter, melted; 2 tbsp olive oil; 4-6 cloves garlic, minced; 5 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp parsley (optional)

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There’s something wonderfully comforting about the warm, buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen when you make Sourdough Garlic Knots. These delightful bites are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, serving as an amazing companion for soups, salads, or just as a standalone snack. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just wanting to elevate your dinner routine, these knots are sure to impress.

Reasons to Love Sourdough Garlic Knots

Sourdough Garlic Knots are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to whip up a batch:

Flavorful Twist: The sourdough adds a tangy depth to the dough, perfectly contrasting with the rich garlic butter.
Easy to Make: With simple steps and clean ingredients, these knots can be a fun cooking project for all ages.
Perfect for Sharing: Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for appetizers or snacks at gatherings.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe with your favorite herbs or cheese to suit your palate.

Gather These Ingredients

To make these irresistible knots, you’ll need a selection of simple, high-quality ingredients. They work together to create that lovely texture and flavor:

125 g filtered water
100 g sourdough starter, at its peak
325 g bread flour
10 g sea salt
50 g butter, melted
2 tbsp olive oil
4-6 cloves garlic, minced (see notes for substitution)
5 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp parsley (optional)

These ingredients combine beautifully, ensuring that each knot is fluffy, airy, and packed with flavor.

Step by Step Process for Sourdough Garlic Knots

Creating your Sourdough Garlic Knots can be simplified into a few actions:

Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the water and sourdough starter. Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Strengthen the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, feeling slightly tacky but not sticky.
Bulk Ferment: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm atmosphere until it doubles in size, roughly 1-2 hours.
Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the risen dough, then divide it into small pieces and roll each into a long rope. Tie the rope into a knot and place it on a baking sheet. Allow the knots to rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
Bake and Brush: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots until golden brown, approximately 20-25 minutes. While they bake, melt the remaining butter and mix in minced garlic and parsley. When done, brush the knots with this mixture.

Prep ~30 min, Cook ~25 min, Total ~55 min, Servings ~12 knots, Kcal ~200 per knot (estimate).

Plan Ahead

For those who love to get a head start, the dough for these garlic knots can be prepared a day in advance. Simply mix, knead, and let it rise as directed. After shaping, store the knots in a covered container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow them a little extra time to rise at room temperature before popping them in the oven.

How to Store Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover knots (which might be rare!), they’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through for optimal freshness.

Perfect Pairings

Sourdough Garlic Knots are incredibly adaptable; consider pairing them with:

A refreshing green salad
Hearty soups, like minestrone or tomato basil
Dipping sauces, such as marinara or pesto
A savory cheese platter
Your favorite pasta meal

Flavor Twists and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your garlic knots! Here are some fun variations:

Herbed Knots: Add your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic touch.
Cheesy Varieties: Incorporate cheese like mozzarella or cheddar into the dough, or sprinkle on top before baking.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Sweet Garlic Knots: Try using garlic and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a sweet version.
Nutty Flavors: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pine nuts into the dough for texture.

Cook’s Notes and Secrets

To ensure your Sourdough Garlic Knots turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active for the best flavor and rise.
Knead until the dough is smooth for a better texture.
Allow space between the knots on the baking sheet for proper air circulation.
If using garlic for brushing, try roasting it for a sweeter flavor profile.
Test the internal temperature of the knots; they should reach around 190°F (88°C) when baked.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but bread flour will yield a chewier texture. All-purpose will work if that’s what you have.
How should I reheat leftover knots?
Gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (149°C) until heated through to keep them soft.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before shaping.
What is the best way to store these?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
Do these knots need to be eaten right away?
While they are best fresh out of the oven, they can still be enjoyed within a few days when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Garlic Knots are a flavorful treat that can uplift any meal or occasion. With their delightful chew and rich buttery garlic taste, they are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them alone, these knots are an unbeatable choice that will leave everyone wanting more. Dive into this recipe and enjoy the warmth and joy of homemade bread soon! Don’t forget to try making quick sourdough discard garlic knots for an easy variation! You can find that recipe here. If you’re also looking for a delicious pasta dish to pair with your knots, consider exploring a mouthwatering recipe for beef rotini with garlic parmesan sauce, available here.

Sourdough Garlic Knots

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 knots 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Warm, buttery Sourdough Garlic Knots that are perfect for sharing, flavorful, and customizable.

Instructions

Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the water and sourdough starter. Gradually add the bread flour and salt, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
Strengthen the dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, feeling slightly tacky but not sticky.
Bulk ferment: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm atmosphere until it doubles in size, roughly 1-2 hours.
Shape and second rise: Punch down the risen dough, then divide it into small pieces and roll each into a long rope. Tie the rope into a knot and place it on a baking sheet. Allow the knots to rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
Bake and brush: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots until golden brown, approximately 20-25 minutes. While they bake, melt the remaining butter and mix in minced garlic and parsley. When done, brush the knots with this mixture.

Notes

Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active for the best flavor and rise. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian