STEP 1: ACTIVATE THE YEAST

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic in the dough.

STEP 2: MAKE THE DOUGH

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is perfect for garlic knots.

STEP 3: KNEAD THE DOUGH

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour as needed. Kneading helps develop gluten, giving the knots their structure.

STEP 4: FIRST RISE

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This rise is essential for achieving fluffy garlic knots.

STEP 5: PREPARE THE GARLIC BUTTER MIXTURE

While the dough is rising, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and remove from heat. This mixture will be brushed onto the knots later, infusing them with incredible flavor.

STEP 6: SHAPE THE KNOTS

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12-16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 8-10 inches long), then tie it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

STEP 7: SECOND RISE

Cover the shaped knots with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This second rise helps create a light and airy texture.

STEP 8: PREHEAT THE OVEN

While the knots are rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is crucial for baking the knots evenly and achieving a beautiful golden color.

STEP 9: BRUSH WITH GARLIC BUTTER

Once the knots have risen, brush the garlic butter mixture generously over each knot, making sure to get some of the minced garlic and herbs on top. This will create a flavorful crust on the knots as they bake.

STEP 10: BAKE

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-brown.

STEP 11: COOL AND SERVE

Remove the garlic knots from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. You can brush them with a little more garlic butter if desired. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.