How to make sourdough garlic knots

What if I told you that the stuff you usually throw out from your sourdough starter could become the best thing you bake this week?
Yes, we’re talking about sourdough garlic knots – soft, fluffy, garlicky, and downright addictive!

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If you’ve been looking for a clever, delicious way to use your sourdough discard, this is it. These garlic knots are perfect for snacking, dipping, or serving alongside your favorite meals.

What’s So Great About Sourdough Garlic Knots?

There’s something magical about the combination of sourdough and garlic butter. The sourdough adds a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with rich, golden garlic. These knots are soft, slightly chewy, and super flavorful.

Best of all? They’re easy to make.

• 🕒 Time: Just about 2 hours (most of it is resting and baking)
• 💪 Difficulty: Very easy – great for beginners and kids
• ♻️ No waste: You’re using your discard instead of throwing it away

Baking these sourdough garlic knots at home feels like a win. You save waste, make something cozy and comforting, and fill your kitchen with the warm smell of fresh bread and garlic.

🧂 Key Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up a batch of homemade sourdough garlic knots, you’ll need only a handful of ingredients. Each one plays an important role.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (100% hydration)
  ➤ Adds flavor and moisture, and helps build texture
• 1 cup self-rising flour
  ➤ Contains baking powder and salt, eliminating the need for extra leavening
• 2 tablespoons melted garlic butter
  ➤ This infuses the dough with bold garlic flavor

Garlic Butter Topping (Optional but Amazing):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 minced garlic clove
• A pinch of salt
• Optional herbs: chopped parsley or dried oregano

Substitutes & Options:

• Flour Alternative: Use 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1½ teaspoons baking powder + ¼ teaspoon salt.
• Dairy-Free Version: Swap butter for plant-based margarine or olive oil.
• Add Herbs: Mix rosemary or Italian seasoning into the dough or the topping for extra depth.

These sourdough garlic knots don’t require yeast because the self-rising flour does the work. That means no long waiting, no rising time – just mix, rest briefly, and bake.

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making sourdough garlic knots is straightforward. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Mix the Dough

Start by combining the sourdough discard and self-rising flour in a medium bowl. Add the melted garlic butter. Mix with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms.

Tip: If your dough is too sticky, sprinkle in extra flour (1 tablespoon at a time). If too dry, add a teaspoon of water.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rest

Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 30–45 minutes. This step helps hydrate the flour and makes the dough easier to shape.

Getting ready to shape @Kitchennest

Step 3: Shape Your Knots

Dust your countertop lightly with flour. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-inch rope. Tie each rope into a loose knot, tucking the ends underneath.

Place each knot onto a parchment-lined baking tray, spacing them an inch apart.

Step-by-step guide to shaping garlic knots

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 15–18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and slightly puffed.

Step 5: Prepare Garlic Butter Topping

While your knots bake, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.

If using herbs, stir them into the butter after cooking.

Garlic Butter Topping @Kitchennest

Step 6: Brush and Serve

When the sourdough garlic knots come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter topping. This gives them shine, flavor, and that irresistible aroma.

Let cool slightly and serve warm!

Sourdough Garlic Knots @Kitchennest

🧺 How to Assemble & Serve Your Garlic Knots

Here are some fun ways to serve up your knots like a pro:

• Pile them in a basket lined with a warm towel
• Drizzle with extra garlic butter just before serving
• Sprinkle grated Parmesan or fresh herbs on top
• Serve with marinara, ranch, or cheese dip

These sourdough garlic knots are a hit on the dinner table, at parties, or as a cozy movie snack.

🧊 Storage and Reheating Tips

Good news – these knots are just as tasty the next day!

• To store: Place cooled knots in an airtight container. Leave at room temp for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4–5 days.
• To reheat: Wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, or microwave for 20 seconds.
• To freeze: Let the knots cool completely, then freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from the freezer in the oven.

🎨 Creative Variations to Try

Want to jazz things up? Here are some variations of sourdough garlic knots that will wow your taste buds:

• Cheesy Garlic Knots: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar before baking.
• Herb Lovers’ Knots: Mix dried herbs like thyme or basil into the dough.
• Spicy Knots: Stir in red pepper flakes to the garlic butter topping.
• Stuffed Knots: Wrap the dough around small cubes of cheese or a dab of pesto.
• Pizza Knots: Add Italian seasoning and dip in pizza sauce.

✅ Health Benefits of Sourdough Garlic Knots

These aren’t just delicious – they’re a smarter choice too!

• Uses whole ingredients: You know exactly what goes into them.
• Fermented flavor: Sourdough discard contains beneficial bacteria.
• Lower waste: You’re reusing food that might be thrown away.
• No additives: Unlike store-bought rolls, these are clean and fresh.

🎉 Conclusion

There you have it! A simple, no-fuss recipe to turn your sourdough discard into something amazing. Sourdough garlic knots are tasty, easy, and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

This recipe shows just how creative you can be in the kitchen without needing complicated tools or ingredients. Want also a complete comfort meal idea? Pair them with this Smoked Sausage and Potato Skillet Recipe 🥔🌍 for a hearty, satisfying combo! 💛🧈

So next time you peek into your sourdough jar and see discard, don’t toss it. Tie it up in a knot, bake it, and enjoy every delicious bite! Try also something bold and crispy like this Perfect Shrimp Cutlet with Fishcake 🍤 — both are flavorful companions! 💛🧈

❓Frequently Asked Question

Q: Can I use active sourdough starter?

A: Yes! Active starter will make the knots puff more. The texture will be softer and lighter.

Q: Can I skip the resting time?

A: We don’t recommend it. Resting helps the dough become smoother and easier to shape.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead?

A: Absolutely. Mix the dough and store it in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Q: How many sourdough garlic knots does this make?

A: This recipe makes 8 knots. You can double or triple the recipe easily.

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour?

A: Yes, try a 1:1 gluten-free blend. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still work.