Sourdough Garlic Knots Soft Buttery And Full Of Flavor
Sourdough garlic knots are a comforting, flavorful bread that fits perfectly into everyday meals as well as special occasions. Made with naturally fermented dough and finished with rich garlic butter, these knots are soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and packed with savory aroma. If you enjoy baking snacks with fermented dough, recipes like Sourdough Crackers offer another great way to use similar techniques.
This recipe focuses on simple techniques, clear steps, and reliable results. Whether you are experienced with sourdough or still learning, these garlic knots are approachable, rewarding, and incredibly satisfying to bake and serve. They pair especially well with fresh meals such as Arugula Salad for a balanced plate.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Simple preparation with straightforward steps that fit into a busy day
- Rich garlic flavor that soaks into every knot without overpowering the bread
- Soft and fluffy texture thanks to proper fermentation and gentle shaping
- Make-ahead friendly dough that can be baked when needed
- Versatile serving options for dinners, parties, or casual snacking
These knots also work beautifully alongside hearty comfort meals like Chickpea Soup when you want something warm and filling.
Tools And Preparation
Having the right tools ready before you start helps keep the process smooth and enjoyable. None of the equipment is complicated, but each item plays a role in achieving the best texture and shape, especially when preparing bread-based sides similar to Sourdough Cheese Crackers.
Essential Tools And Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Dough scraper
- Clean work surface
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Small saucepan
Why These Tools Matter
- A mixing bowl gives enough space to combine ingredients evenly
- A dough scraper makes handling sticky dough easier and cleaner
- A baking sheet allows even heat distribution for uniform baking
- A pastry brush helps spread garlic butter evenly for full flavor
Ingredients For Sourdough Garlic Knots
Using high-quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. Just like with baked sourdough snacks such as Sourdough Discard Garlic Pull Apart Bread, fresh garlic and active starter are key.
For The Dough
- Filtered water
- Active sourdough starter at peak strength
- Bread flour
- Fine sea salt
- Melted butter
For The Garlic Butter Topping
- Olive oil
- Fresh garlic, finely minced
- Unsalted butter
- Salt
- Fresh parsley (optional)
How To Make Sourdough Garlic Knots
Step 1 Mix The Dough
In a large bowl, combine the water and sourdough starter until fully blended. Add the flour and salt, then mix until a rough dough forms. Finish by incorporating the melted butter until everything comes together.
Step 2 Develop Dough Strength
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft but not overly sticky, similar in handling to dough used for Sourdough Discard Crackers.
Step 3 Bulk Fermentation
Place the dough back into the bowl, cover, and let it ferment at room temperature. This stage allows flavor to develop and the dough to rise until nearly doubled in size.
Step 4 Shape The Knots
Gently turn the dough out and divide it into equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope and tie into a loose knot. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each knot.
Step 5 Second Rise And Baking
Cover the shaped knots and allow them to rise again until slightly puffy. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 6 Prepare And Brush Garlic Butter
While the knots bake, gently heat butter, olive oil, and garlic until fragrant. Brush the warm garlic butter generously over the baked knots and finish with salt and parsley if desired.
How To Serve Sourdough Garlic Knots
Sourdough garlic knots are extremely adaptable and complement many meals. Their savory profile makes them suitable for both casual and more formal settings, especially when paired with light pasta dishes like Greek Orzo Salad.
Serve With Pasta
- Tomato-based pasta dishes
- Creamy sauces that benefit from bread for dipping
- Herb-forward pasta recipes
Pair With Soups
- Vegetable-based soups
- Tomato soups
- Brothy or bean-based soups
Enjoy As A Snack Or Appetizer
- Serve warm with extra garlic butter
- Pair with cheese boards or light spreads
- Offer as a shared table bread
Tips To Perfect Sourdough Garlic Knots
- Use a fully active starter for proper rise and flavor
- Allow enough time for fermentation rather than rushing the process
- Handle the dough gently during shaping to preserve air pockets
- Brush garlic butter while knots are warm so it absorbs fully
- Adjust garlic intensity to suit your personal taste
Best Side Dishes To Serve With Sourdough Garlic Knots
Sourdough garlic knots make an excellent bread option alongside wholesome vegetarian meals like Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers, creating a filling and well-balanced dinner.
- Fresh green salads with light dressing
- Roasted seasonal vegetables
- Grilled or baked protein dishes
- Simple antipasto platters
- Creamy dips or spreads
They also shine when served with colorful vegetable-based sides such as Roasted Carrots And Potatoes.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Using an inactive starter, which leads to dense knots
- Adding too much flour during kneading, drying out the dough
- Skipping the second rise, resulting in tight texture
- Overbaking, which removes softness
- Under-seasoning the garlic butter
Storage And Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled sourdough garlic knots in an airtight container. They remain fresh for several days when properly sealed.
Freezing Instructions
Once fully cooled, place the knots in freezer-safe packaging. They freeze well and can be stored for extended periods without losing quality.
Reheating Methods
- Oven: Warm gently until heated through
- Microwave: Reheat briefly to avoid drying
- Stovetop: Heat covered on low for soft results
Sourdough Garlic Knots
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- ¾ cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
For Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix sourdough starter, warm water, olive oil, and sugar.
- Add flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover and let rest at room temperature for 8–12 hours until doubled.
- Divide dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a rope and tie into a knot.
- Place knots on a lined baking tray.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix garlic butter ingredients and brush generously over hot knots.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Use an active, bubbly sourdough starter for best rise.
- You can add cheese or chili flakes for extra flavor.
- Garlic knots taste best fresh but can be reheated.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use All Purpose Flour Instead Of Bread Flour
Yes, all purpose flour works, though bread flour provides a chewier and more structured texture.
How Do I Know My Starter Is Ready
A ready starter is bubbly, active, and has doubled in volume within a few hours of feeding.
Can I Prepare The Dough Ahead Of Time
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated after bulk fermentation and shaped later for fresh baking.
Are There Flavor Variations I Can Try
Herbs, cheese, or mild spices can be added to the dough or topping to create variety.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough garlic knots bring together the depth of sourdough fermentation and the comfort of garlic butter in one irresistible bread. They are easy to prepare, flexible to serve, and rewarding to bake. With proper fermentation and a generous garlic finish, these knots quickly become a favorite addition to any meal.
