Picture this: warm, buttery rolls infused with the bold flavors of garlic and herbs. In this post, I’ll guide you through my simple recipe for Herb Garlic Knotted Rolls. You don't need to be a pro baker—just follow my easy steps! Whether you want a tasty side for dinner or a snack, these rolls are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and start baking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of fresh herbs and garlic infuses these rolls with an aromatic and savory flavor that complements any meal.
- Fun to Make: Tying the dough into knots adds a fun and interactive element to baking, making it a great activity for families or gatherings.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are versatile enough to serve as a side for dinner or as a delicious appetizer at parties.
- Golden, Crispy Exterior: The egg wash gives the rolls a beautiful golden color and a delightful crispy crust that enhances the overall texture.
Ingredients
Main List of Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (approximately 110°F)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Extra flour for dusting
Optional Ingredients
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
- Grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist
Tools and Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Knife or dough cutter

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
Start by gathering your ingredients. You will need flour, yeast, sugar, salt, warm water, and olive oil. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together well. This ensures that the yeast spreads evenly.
Next, take another bowl and mix 1 cup of warm water with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. The water should feel warm but not hot, about 110°F. Slowly pour this mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a wooden spoon. Keep stirring until a rough dough forms.
Kneading and Rising
Now it's time to knead! Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want it to feel smooth and elastic. Proper kneading helps develop the gluten and gives the rolls their nice texture.
Once the dough is ready, shape it into a ball. Place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour. You want it to double in size. This rise is important for fluffy rolls.
After the dough has risen, gently punch it down. This releases any trapped air. Now add 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of chopped thyme to the dough. Knead again until the herbs and garlic mix evenly.
Shaping the Knotted Rolls
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 10 inches long. Tie each rope into a loose knot. Tuck the ends underneath the knot. This gives a neat look.
Place the knotted rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Space them slightly apart. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes. This second rise helps the rolls become even fluffier.
While the rolls rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). When the rolls are ready, brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes. They should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Enjoy your fresh herb garlic knotted rolls!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Dough Texture
To get the best dough, start with the right flour. Use all-purpose flour for its balance. When you mix the dry ingredients, whisk them well. This helps the yeast and sugar blend nicely. When adding the warm water, stir gently. You want to form a rough dough, not a sticky mess. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes. It should feel smooth and elastic. This step is key to getting the right texture.
Achieving a Golden Brown Finish
A golden brown finish makes your rolls look amazing. To achieve this, brush the tops with a beaten egg. This gives a nice shine and color. Bake your rolls at 375°F for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If they brown too fast, cover them with foil.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are perfect for any meal. Serve them warm in a basket lined with a towel. You can add a dish of olive oil for dipping. Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for flair. They also pair well with soups and salads. Enjoy sharing these tasty rolls with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor to your rolls. If you can, opt for freshly chopped herbs rather than dried for the best taste.
- Perfect Dough Temperature: Ensure your water is warm but not hot (about 110°F). Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold may not activate it properly.
- Let Them Rise: Be patient during the second rise. It helps develop the texture and flavor of the rolls, making them light and airy.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to regain warmth and crispness.
Variations
Adding Different Herbs
You can change the taste of your rolls by using different herbs. Swap parsley, rosemary, and thyme for basil, dill, or oregano. Each herb brings a new flavor twist. For a fresh taste, try using chopped chives or tarragon. Mix and match herbs to create your own blend. Just remember to keep the amounts the same for balance.
Cheese Stuffed Knotted Rolls
For a fun twist, add cheese to your rolls. After shaping the dough, flatten each piece. Place a cube of cheese in the center and fold the dough over it. Then roll it into a knot. Cheese options include mozzarella, cheddar, or feta. When baked, the cheese melts and adds a tasty surprise inside each roll.
Garlic Butter Topping
Boost the garlic flavor by making a garlic butter topping. Melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic. Brush this mixture over the rolls right before baking. This adds a rich, buttery taste. Sprinkle with extra herbs for an even more delicious touch. Your rolls will be golden and full of flavor!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing
To keep your herb garlic knotted rolls fresh, store them in a cool, dry place. Place them in an airtight container or a zip-top bag. This helps keep moisture out and keeps them soft. If you leave them out, eat them within two days. For longer storage, the fridge is not the best choice as it can make them dry.
Reheating Knotted Rolls
When you want to enjoy leftover rolls, reheating is easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes or until warm. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds. But, be careful not to overheat, or they might get chewy.
Freezing and Thawing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, take them out and leave them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, reheat them in the oven after thawing. Enjoy your rolls just like the first day!
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just remember to activate it first. To do this, mix it with warm water and sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it bubbles. Then add it to your dry mix like you would with instant yeast. This extra step ensures your rolls rise well and have that perfect fluffy texture.
How can I make these rolls vegan?
Making these rolls vegan is easy! Simply omit the egg wash before baking. You can brush the tops with a mix of almond milk and a bit of maple syrup instead. This will help the rolls brown nicely. Also, ensure the olive oil you use is plant-based. Your rolls will still be soft and delicious without any animal products.
What's the best way to serve herb garlic knotted rolls?
Serve these rolls warm for the best taste. Place them in a woven basket lined with a clean kitchen towel. This keeps them warm and adds charm. You can also offer a small bowl of olive oil for dipping. For extra flair, sprinkle fresh herbs on top. This makes a lovely display and enhances the flavor!
In this post, we covered key ingredients and tools for knotted rolls. I shared clear steps for preparing, kneading, and shaping them. You learned tips for perfect texture and golden browning. We explored tasty variations, plus storage and reheating methods to keep them fresh. Remember, customizing your rolls makes them special. Enjoy baking, and have fun trying different flavors and serving ideas! Each roll can give you joy and delight.