When you think of cozy, comforting sides that deserve a permanent spot on your table, especially during the holidays, these buttery garlic bread knots with fresh rosemary rise to the occasion—quite literally. With their soft, fluffy interior, crisp golden edges, and an herby garlic butter glaze that fills your kitchen with an aroma that screams “fall baking,” these knots are as satisfying to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re planning a small Thanksgiving dinner or contributing to a larger spread, these knots bring a warm, homemade touch that feels both indulgent and thoughtful. Plus, they pair beautifully with everything from classic turkey to hearty soups, or even as a savory contrast to sweeter thanksgiving treats.
Buttery Garlic Bread Knots with Fresh Rosemary
Prep Time 25 minutes mins
Cook Time 18 minutes mins
Dough Rising Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 43 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Stand mixer with dough hook Ideal for kneading the dough thoroughly. If you don’t have one, hand kneading works just fine—just add a few more minutes to the process.
Mixing bowls You’ll need at least two—one for mixing and one for proofing the dough.
Pastry Brush For applying the garlic butter evenly over the warm knots.
Baking sheet Line with parchment or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Rolling pin (optional) Useful if you want evenly rolled ropes of dough before tying into knots.
Small saucepan To melt the butter and infuse it with garlic and rosemary.
For the Dough
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- 2 ¼ tsp 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water about 110°F
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 egg for a richer dough, optional but recommended
For the Garlic Butter
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced or crushed
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped (optional, for color)
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp cracked black pepper
Finishing Touch
- Flaky salt for topping
- Extra rosemary sprigs for garnish
Activate the Yeast
Start by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Make the Dough
In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and egg (if using). Mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Knots
Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into an 8-inch rope and tie gently into a knot, tucking ends under or leaving them loose for a rustic look.
Second Rise
Place the shaped knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let them rest for 15-20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F.
Bake
Bake the knots for 16–18 minutes or until golden brown on top and slightly firm when tapped.
Make the Garlic Butter
While the knots bake, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, rosemary, parsley, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to allow the garlic to mellow and flavors to blend.
Glaze the Knots
As soon as the knots come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter. Sprinkle flaky salt and a few rosemary leaves for that bakery-style finish.
Pairings
These garlic bread knots are ridiculously versatile. For a holiday setting, serve them alongside roasted turkey, green bean casserole, or even creamy mashed potatoes. They also shine with soups like roasted tomato bisque or creamy wild mushroom. Want to keep things casual? Pair them with marinara or even serve with a garlic bread loaf or turkey bread for a themed twist on Thanksgiving bread recipes. They even hold their own against bold flavors like spiced cranberry brie bites puff pastries, offering a savory counterbalance to sweet and tangy appetizers.
If you're keeping things low-key with a small Thanksgiving dinner, these knots are just fancy enough to feel special without being over-the-top. They also reheat beautifully the next day and are perfect for sopping up leftover gravy.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-minced garlic or roasted garlic instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Pre-minced garlic works in a pinch, but roasted garlic bread lovers will enjoy the deeper, mellow flavor roasted cloves offer. Just mash them into the butter and stir well.
2. What type of flour works best?
All-purpose flour is reliable and creates a soft, tender texture. If you're after a chewier knot, bread flour can be used instead for a bit more bite.
3. Can I make these garlic knots ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape the knots, place them on a tray, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them come to room temp and do their second rise before baking. They also freeze well—just wrap tightly and reheat in foil.
4. Can I add cheese?
Definitely. A sprinkle of parmesan or mozzarella inside or on top before baking makes these even more indulgent. Just be careful not to overload them, or they may unravel during baking.
5. Are these suitable as a standalone thanksgiving treat?
They are. In fact, they could be the sleeper hit of your table. While people expect pumpkin pies and cranberry sauces, these buttery knots offer something unexpected but incredibly welcome. They’re the kind of yummy food that disappears before the turkey even hits the table.
