Warm, buttery, and infused with fresh herbs, these Sourdough Garlic Knots turn your extra sourdough discard into something irresistibly golden. Perfect for cozy weeknight meals, weekend gatherings, or as a quick side dish, they’re proof that leftover starter can transform into bakery-style comfort food. In this guide, you’ll find everything from a simple ingredient list to essential tools, baking tips, and an FAQ section to make your Cold Sourdough Discard Recipes shine. These knots promise a rustic, aromatic twist that blends the charm of homemade sourdough with the savor of garlic and herbs—ready to tear, share, and enjoy.
A Cozy Memory Behind These Sourdough Garlic Knots
It began one chilly evening, when the tangy scent of sourdough discard was calling from a jar in the fridge. I’d already baked one too many loaves that week, but throwing away that bit of starter felt wrong. So, I turned to comfort—kneading, rolling, and twisting dough into what would become fluffy Sourdough Garlic Knots.
The first batch came together as laughter filled the kitchen; family gathered around, and the aroma of roasted garlic and fresh herbs filled the air. The knots puffed beautifully in the oven—soft yet slightly crisp, brushed with herb butter that shimmered in golden light.
What amazed me most was how Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots turned a bit of kitchen waste into a centerpiece worthy of any meal. The Cold Sourdough Discard Recipes trend had me hooked—it wasn’t just about saving the starter; it was about discovering the heart of homemade comfort. The process was slow, grounding, and as the knots baked, the house smelled like warmth itself—yeast, butter, and the earthy note of oregano mingling in the air.
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Sourdough Garlic Knots with Herbs & Discard Twist
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 knots 1x
Description
Warm, buttery, and infused with fresh herbs, these sourdough garlic knots turn your extra sourdough discard into something irresistibly golden. Perfect for cozy weeknights or as a quick side dish, this recipe includes a simple ingredient list, step-by-step method for oven or air fryer baking, and FAQ tips for storage and variations.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Combine sourdough discard, warm water, and olive oil in a large bowl until creamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and optional instant yeast, then stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until soft and elastic.
4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled.
5. Punch down the dough and divide into 12 pieces, rolling each into an 8-inch rope.
6. Tie each rope into a knot and arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Cover knots and proof for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake knots for 15–18 minutes until golden.
9. Brush hot knots with melted garlic-herb butter and sprinkle with extra herbs and flaky salt.
10. Let knots rest 5 minutes on a cooling rack, then serve warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: bread
- Method: oven
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 knot
Keywords: sourdough, garlic knots, sourdough discard, herb knots, air fryer, side dish, bread, baking, discard recipe
That’s when I realized these knots weren’t just a recipe—they were a ritual. Every twist wrapped in memory, every bite a reminder that even the “leftovers” in our kitchens can become something truly special.
Why These Knots Are a Sourdough Discard Win
The beauty of these Sourdough Garlic Knots lies in their practicality and flavor. Using sourdough discard means you’re cutting back on kitchen waste while adding complexity to your bread’s taste. The slight acidity of the discard deepens the buttery, garlicky aroma, giving every bite a gentle tang that enriches rather than overpowers.
This recipe easily earns its place among favorite Sour Dough Recipes Quick because the dough is simple, forgiving, and versatile. There’s no pressure to build a bubbly, active starter; even cold discard works wonders here. The herbs—whether parsley, oregano, or rosemary—infuse the dough and butter glaze with layers of fragrance, turning each knot into a tiny bouquet of flavor.
More than a recipe, it’s a small celebration of sustainable baking. Instead of watching your starter remnants go to waste, you can twist them into something meaningful, golden, and delicious. Whether served as a side to soup, pasta, or just torn apart straight from the pan, these Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots embody the creative joy of home baking—simple yet deeply satisfying.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The secret to soft, aromatic Sourdough Garlic Knots lies in the balance of simple ingredients that each bring their charm to the dough. Every element—from the richness of butter to the earthy herbs—plays a role in both flavor and texture. Whether your sourdough discard comes straight from the fridge or has reached room temperature, these staples work together to transform leftovers into golden perfection.
Below is a straightforward ingredient table to help you prepare everything in one glance. Feel free to mix up the flavors and explore new Sourdough Discard Ideas along the way.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sourdough discard | 1 cup | Cold or room temp – gives a mild tang and structure |
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | Replace ½ cup with bread flour for chew |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Fresh garlic gives strong flavor |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Adds moisture and richness |
| Herbs (parsley, oregano) | 1 tbsp | Fresh or dried options |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Balances flavor |
| Butter (for brushing) | 2 tbsp, melted | Gives shine and buttery finish |
| Warm water | ½ cup | Adjust if dough feels dry |
| Instant yeast (optional) | ½ tsp | Use for faster rise in Sour Dough Recipes Quick |
Substitution tips:
- Plant-based: Swap butter for vegan butter; use olive or avocado oil.
- Flavor boost: Add crushed red pepper or try dill or thyme.
- Garlic: Roasted garlic gives a sweeter, mellow flavor.
- Whole-grain option: Substitute part of flour with whole wheat.
Tools You’ll Need
A few reliable kitchen tools make all the difference in achieving bakery-quality knots at home. You don’t need anything fancy—just the basics to keep the process smooth and efficient.
- Mixing bowl: Spacious enough for mixing and kneading.
- Bench scraper: Divides dough neatly and keeps surfaces clean.
- Baking sheet or parchment-lined tray: Ensures even baking.
- Pastry brush: Perfect for applying garlic butter evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees proper moisture balance, vital for Cold Sourdough Discard Recipes.
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap: Keeps dough moist while resting.
- Oven or air fryer: Traditional oven for chewy texture or an air fryer for quicker, crisp results—ideal for Sour Dough Recipes Quick.
Optional but handy: A digital scale for accuracy and a cooling rack to prevent soggy bottoms.
Shaping and Proofing the Dough
Making Sourdough Garlic Knots with Herbs is about texture and patience. Combine sourdough discard, warm water, and olive oil in a large mixing bowl and whisk until creamy. Add flour, salt, and optional instant yeast for a faster rise. Mix until you get a shaggy, workable dough.
Pro tip: For Cold Sourdough Discard Recipes, let cold discard warm for 15–20 minutes or add a teaspoon of warm water—it loosens the texture for easier kneading. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Form the dough into a ball, place it in an oiled bowl, and cover. Let rise for 60–90 minutes until doubled. If using cold discard with no yeast, expect a 2–3 hour rise—it develops deeper tangy flavor. Punch down, divide into 12 pieces, roll each into an 8-inch rope, and tie into knots. Arrange on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and proof for 30–45 minutes until puffy. Prepare garlic-herb butter while waiting by melting butter with minced garlic and chopped herbs.
Baking Options – Oven or Air Fryer Twist
Oven Method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Brush knots with butter or oil and bake 15–18 minutes until golden. Brush hot knots with garlic-herb butter, sprinkle with flaky salt and herbs, and cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil basket or line with parchment. Cook 4–5 knots per batch for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway. Brush immediately with garlic butter after cooking. Air frying yields crisp edges and a soft interior—great for Sour Dough Recipes Quick fans.
Serve warm with marinara or olive oil on the side. Whichever method you choose, you’ll enjoy perfectly golden Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots with Herbs—buttery, fragrant, and full of homemade charm.
FAQ on Sourdough Garlic Knots & Discard Use
1. Can I make sourdough garlic knots without waiting for the dough to rise?
Yes—you can add a touch of instant yeast for faster fermentation without losing the tangy sourdough discard flavor. Perfect for Sour Dough Recipes Quick.
2. How do I store leftover sourdough garlic knots?
Keep cooled Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots in an airtight container for two days at room temp or refrigerate up to five. Reheat in oven or air fryer 5 minutes before serving to revive crispness.
3. What herbs work best for flavor variety?
Parsley and oregano are classics, but rosemary, basil, and chives are great alternatives. Mix herbs to match your meal—you can’t go wrong with these Herb Garlic Knots Recipes.
4. Can I freeze the knots for later?
Yes—freeze cooled knots in a sealed bag up to three months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, brush with fresh garlic butter, and enjoy Cold Sourdough Discard Recipes that taste freshly baked.
The Comfort of Homemade Sourdough Garlic Knots
There’s something timeless about pulling warm Sourdough Garlic Knots with Herbs & Discard Twist from the oven—the golden sheen, the buttery aroma, and that sprinkle of herbs on top. These knots prove sourdough discard isn’t waste but opportunity.
Whether you choose the golden oven bake or speedy Sour Dough Recipes Quick air fryer method, each knot celebrates comfort and creativity. They’re not just bread; they’re a reminder of how simple, humble ingredients become moments worth sharing.
So, the next time your jar of Cold Sourdough Discard begs for use, twist it into something comforting and fragrant. With a swirl of herbs, a brush of garlic butter, and a bit of love, you’ll fill your home with the warmth of these cozy Sourdough Garlic Knots.
