Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots – Easy Pull Apart Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a bakery-style side that’s fluffy, flavorful, and irresistibly buttery, these Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots will become your new favorite bake. This easy pull-apart bread recipe transforms a humble sourdough starter into golden, tender knots brushed with rich garlic butter. Whether you’re using an active starter or sourdough discard, this recipe is simple enough for beginners and satisfying for seasoned bakers. In this post, you’ll explore the story behind these savory knots, the key ingredients and tools you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, flavor tips, storage suggestions, and helpful FAQs for mastering this Quick Sourdough Garlic Bread at home.

Homemade Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots – The Story & Inspiration

A Family-Favorite Bread with a Twist

Every family seems to have that one bread recipe that makes its way to every gathering, and for us, it’s these Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots. I first discovered the idea during a cozy holiday dinner when I wanted something more hands-on and fun than the usual dinner rolls. The smell of garlic butter melting into freshly baked dough filled the kitchen—it was warm, comforting, and incredibly inviting. Pulling apart the golden knots straight from the pan became a cherished ritual, one that quickly turned this recipe into a go-to favorite.

Over time, it evolved into an Easy Pull Apart Bread Recipe that everyone requested again and again. There’s just something magical about gathering around a plate of Quick Sourdough Garlic Bread—it encourages sharing, laughter, and plenty of second helpings.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its use of sourdough starter discard, that tangy leftover most bakers hate to waste. By incorporating it into these Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots, you add depth, lightness, and a subtle tang that balances the richness of the butter and garlic perfectly. The sourdough discard enhances texture—giving the knots a chewy crumb and delicate crust—while also adding a touch of character that makes each bite even more satisfying.

Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots – Easy Pull Apart Bread Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 knots 1x

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Description

These Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots transform sourdough starter or discard into golden, fluffy pull-apart bread brushed with rich garlic butter. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe yields tender knots with a chewy crumb, buttery topping, and a hint of tang from the sourdough. With simple pantry staples, straightforward steps, and optional add-ins like parmesan or herbs, you can enjoy freshly baked garlic knots in under two hours. Serve warm with pasta, soup, or on their own for an irresistible side or appetizer.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup active sourdough starter or discard

3/4 cup water

1 tsp instant yeast

1 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp olive oil

1 1/2 tsp salt

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

3–4 cloves fresh garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

sea salt flakes, for topping

2 tbsp grated parmesan (optional)

1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)

1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)

1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)

1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Combine sourdough starter or discard, water, sugar, and olive oil in a bowl and stir to blend

2. Add flour and salt and mix on low speed until dough forms

3. Knead dough 8-10 minutes with a mixer or 12 minutes by hand until smooth and elastic

4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 60-90 minutes

5. Turn dough onto a floured surface, roll into a 1/2 inch thick rectangle, and cut into 1×6 inch strips

6. Tie each strip into a loose knot and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet

7. Cover and proof knots until puffy, 30-45 minutes

8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake knots 18-22 minutes until golden

9. While baking, melt butter, stir in garlic, parsley, and salt

10. Brush hot knots with garlic butter and sprinkle with parmesan or sea salt if desired

11. Let knots cool on a rack 5 minutes and serve warm

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: bread
• Method: baking
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 knot

Keywords: garlic butter sourdough knots, easy pull apart bread, quick sourdough garlic bread, sourdough starter discard recipe, garlic knots sourdough, easy sourdough bread recipe, sourdough garlic knots

It’s a wonderful reminder that the best Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe doesn’t always start from scratch; sometimes it begins with what’s left behind. Turning sourdough discard into golden, pull-apart knots proves just how comforting and resourceful home baking can be, making this Sourdough Starter Discard Recipe a staple for cozy weekends.

Ingredients and Tools for Perfect Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots

The Essential Ingredients List

Before you dive into shaping those beautiful Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Keeping your ingredients organized ensures a smoother baking experience and perfect texture every time. This Sourdough Starter Discard Recipe uses common pantry staples, proving that extraordinary flavor can come from simple ingredients.

With this ingredient setup, your Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots will have that golden crust, fluffy pull-apart interior, and rich buttery finish that makes them truly irresistible.

Tools You’ll Need for Perfect Baking

Having the right tools on hand can make a big difference between a good bake and an amazing one. To make this Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe as smooth as possible, prep your kitchen with the following essentials:

• Stand Mixer or Mixing Bowl: A stand mixer with a dough hook helps knead the dough effortlessly, but you can also mix and knead by hand if preferred.
• Kitchen Scale: For accuracy—measuring ingredients by weight ensures consistent results, especially in any Sourdough Starter Discard Recipe.
• Bench Scraper: Perfect for dividing the dough evenly and keeping your work surface tidy.
• Rolling Pin (optional): Useful for flattening dough before shaping the knots.
• Baking Sheet or Tray: Choose a sturdy one that heats evenly; line it with parchment for quick cleanup.
• Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and helps remove knots easily after baking.
• Pastry Brush: Essential for coating each knot with glossy garlic butter fresh from the oven.
• Clean Kitchen Towel or Plastic Wrap: For covering the dough during proofing, helping retain moisture.
• Cooling Rack: Promotes airflow for soft interiors and lightly crisp edges.

With these tools ready, you’ll feel confident tackling your batch of Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots. The prep is simple, but the payoff—warm, fragrant, Quick Sourdough Garlic Bread fresh from your kitchen—is absolutely worth it.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Pull Apart Bread Recipe

Making and Shaping the Dough Knots

Ready to make these beautifully golden Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots? Let’s walk through each step together. This Sourdough Garlic Knots Easy method ensures beginner-friendly success without complicated techniques.

1. Activate and Prepare the Dough: In the bowl of your stand mixer (or large bowl), combine sourdough starter or discard, water, sugar, and olive oil. Stir until blended. Add flour and salt, then mix on low until the dough comes together.
2. Knead Until Smooth: Knead for 8–10 minutes using the dough hook or 12 minutes by hand until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If sticky, add flour a tablespoon at a time. The goal is a supple dough that stretches easily—a foundation for light Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots.
3. The First Rise: Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 60–90 minutes at room temperature, or until doubled. For extra tang, refrigerate overnight to deepen flavor in your Easy Pull Apart Bread Recipe.
4. Divide and Shape the Knots: Turn risen dough onto a floured surface, press into a ½-inch rectangle, and cut into strips (1 inch × 6 inches). Tie each piece into a loose knot, tucking ends under for a neat look—this gives the signature Garlic Knots Sourdough style.
5. Proof the Knots: Arrange shaped knots on a parchment-lined sheet, cover, and rest 30–45 minutes until puffy and airy. Proper proofing ensures a soft interior and chewy bite.

Baking and Brushing with Garlic Butter

6. Preheat and Bake: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and crisp underneath. Your Quick Sourdough Garlic Bread is ready once the kitchen smells rich and buttery.
7. Prepare the Garlic Butter: Melt butter over low heat, stir in minced garlic, and let it sizzle 30–60 seconds. Add parsley and salt, then remove from heat.
8. Coat with Garlic Butter: Brush the warm mixture over baked knots immediately—listen for that satisfying sizzle. Add Parmesan or sea salt for extra flavor.
9. Cool and Serve: Rest on a rack for 5 minutes before serving. The buttery glaze soaks in for ultimate pull-apart perfection.
10. Enjoy Fresh or Store for Later: Keep in an airtight container for up to two days, or freeze and reheat at 325°F (160°C) until soft again.

These simple steps transform basic ingredients into restaurant-quality Quick Sourdough Garlic Bread—fluffy, fragrant, and perfect for sharing.

FAQs and Delicious Serving Tips

Frequently Asked Questions about Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots

Can I make these knots using sourdough starter discard only?
Yes! The recipe works beautifully with sourdough discard only—no active yeast required if your discard is bubbly. Adding yeast helps speed things up when you need Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots the same day. Expect a tangier flavor and longer rise when using discard alone.

How long do Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots stay fresh?
They remain soft for up to two days at room temperature when sealed, or four in the fridge. To refresh, warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked softness.

Can they be frozen or reheated later?
Absolutely! Freeze cooled knots in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes and brush with extra garlic butter for best results.

What’s the best way to make them softer or crispier?
Brush generously with melted butter before and after baking and cover while cooling for soft knots. For crisp edges, bake a few minutes longer and cool uncovered.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, replace up to half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat. It adds nutty flavor—just add a bit more water to keep your Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe tender.

Serving Ideas and Conclusion

Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots are the perfect companion for pasta, soups, or festive dinners. Serve them with marinara or olive oil dip as an irresistible appetizer. Their buttery pull-apart texture elevates any meal.

For storage, keep them sealed at room temperature short-term or freeze for later. A gentle oven reheat restores the warm, soft texture and buttery aroma of freshly baked bread.

Homemade Garlic Butter Sourdough Knots are a comforting way to express creativity through baking. Every twist represents warmth and the simple joy of transforming your Sourdough Starter Discard Recipe into something extraordinary. So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and create your own Easy Sourdough Bread Recipe success at home.