Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots
Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots are a delicious and satisfying bakery-style treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. Garlic knots originated in Italian-American pizzerias in New York during the 1970s as a creative way to use up leftover pizza dough.
Traditionally brushed with fragrant garlic butter and sprinkled with herbs, these soft, twisted rolls have become an irresistible addition to pizza nights and Italian feasts.
Now, with the growing prevalence of gluten intolerance and celiac disease, making gluten free garlic knots at home ensures that everyone can enjoy this classic comfort food without worry.
By using a blend of gluten free flours and the right techniques, you can craft knots that rival their wheat-based counterparts—soft on the inside, golden and crisp on the outside, and loaded with garlicky aroma.
Whether you follow a gluten free lifestyle by choice or necessity, mastering homemade gluten free garlic knots lets you recreate the full experience of your favorite Italian restaurant right in your own kitchen.
From satisfying your own cravings to impressing guests, this recipe empowers you to make a universally loved side dish accessible to all.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum)
- 2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (plus more for brushing)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (or dairy free substitute), melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried parsley)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or dairy free alternative)
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, confirming yeast activation.
- Add the olive oil, egg, and apple cider vinegar to the yeast mixture and whisk until combined.
- Gradually incorporate the gluten free all-purpose flour blend and salt, mixing with a sturdy spoon or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer. Continue mixing until a sticky dough forms and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Cover the bowl loosely with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 40–60 minutes, or until slightly puffed. Gluten free dough won’t double in size, but will expand somewhat.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Using an oiled spoon or cookie scoop, divide the dough into 10–12 equal pieces. With greased hands, roll each piece into a rope (about 6–8 inches long). Tie each rope into a loose knot and place onto the prepared baking sheet, tucking the ends underneath when possible.
- Cover the knots with a lightweight towel and let them rest for an additional 15–20 minutes to relax and puff slightly.
- While the knots are resting, prep the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Brush each knot with half of the garlic butter mixture, reserving the rest for later.
- Bake knots in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until lightly golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove knots from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan (if using) and a pinch of sea salt.
- Allow to cool slightly and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots offer a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making them a tempting and energy-rich addition to any meal.
Each serving (one knot, based on a batch of twelve) generally provides about 120 calories, 3 grams of protein, 18 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of fat. The olive oil and butter add monounsaturated and saturated fats, which contribute to the knots’ plush texture and indulgent mouthfeel.
The use of gluten free flour blends may slightly increase the fiber content if whole grain options are chosen, helping promote better digestive health. Additionally, garlic not only imparts flavor but also delivers antioxidants and allicin, a compound linked to various health benefits including cardiovascular support.
While these knots are naturally lower in dietary fiber than traditional whole wheat breads, they are free from artificial preservatives and can be easily adapted for dairy free or vegan diets by swapping out butter and egg.
For individuals following a gluten free diet due to celiac disease or gluten intolerance, these garlic knots provide a safe and tasty alternative to bakery goods, ensuring a wholesome and inclusive family dining experience.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic Italian touch, serve alongside a light-bodied Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to balance the garlicky richness without overpowering the palate. If you prefer red wine, a young Chianti complements the herbal and savory notes.
Non-alcoholic options like sparkling water with lemon, homemade lemonade, or a crisp herbal iced tea are equally refreshing and cut through the butteriness of the knots. For pizza nights, consider an Italian soda or a dry cider for extra zest.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Achieving perfect Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots requires a few specialized tips and optional variations to fit your needs. First, always use a high-quality gluten free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum.
These ingredients mimic the elasticity and structure provided by gluten in traditional breads, ensuring your knots are soft rather than dense or crumbly. Warm water activates the yeast effectively, helping your dough to rise, but avoid excessively hot water which can kill the yeast.
To prevent sticking, thoroughly oil your hands and work surface before shaping the dough: gluten free dough is stickier than its wheat-based counterpart and can be difficult to handle otherwise. Letting the dough rest after shaping encourages a more open, airy crumb.
There’s room for creativity in the flavor profile; try adding finely chopped fresh herbs such as basil, rosemary, or chives, or use roasted garlic for extra depth.
Dairy free variations can be achieved using vegan butter and omitting cheese, while egg-free knots can often be made with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture. For added crunch, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds before baking, or incorporate them into the dough.
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently in a toaster oven to restore softness and flavor. If you prefer a crispier knot, bake for a few extra minutes or finish under the broiler for a golden exterior.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots warm for optimal tenderness and aroma. They make an excellent starter for Italian dinner parties, perfect alongside a hearty marinara sauce for dipping or as an accompaniment to soups like tomato basil or minestrone.
Place them in a breadbasket lined with a clean kitchen towel to keep them soft, or arrange them in a rustic pile on a wooden board, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
For an inviting appetizer platter, surround the knots with small bowls of olive tapenade, roasted red pepper dip, or balsamic reduction. If you’re entertaining guests who follow varying diets, label them clearly as gluten free to give peace of mind.
These knots also shine as a side dish for pasta dinners, pairing well with classics like fettuccine Alfredo, spaghetti aglio e olio, or baked ziti.
For a lighter lunch, slice the knots in half and use them as the base for mini sandwiches stuffed with grilled vegetables, fresh mozzarella, or pesto. Leftovers are delicious reheated, toasted, or even chopped into croutons for salads.
With their inviting aroma and pillowy bite, these garlic knots elevate any meal to a festive occasion.
Health Benefits
Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots offer numerous health benefits, particularly for individuals managing gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. By using gluten free flour blends, these knots eliminate the risk of gluten-triggered reactions, allowing for inclusion in a wider variety of diets.
Garlic, a key component, is rich in antioxidants and compounds like allicin, which have been linked to immune support, anti-inflammatory effects, and cardiovascular health. Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting better cholesterol levels and overall heart health compared to processed seed oils.
By controlling the amount of added salt and opting for fresh ingredients, you can reduce sodium and avoid preservatives found in store-bought breads. Using dairy free or vegan options makes this recipe highly adaptable for various dietary restrictions.
While they do contain carbohydrates typical of baked goods, moderating portion size and pairing with fiber-rich dishes helps manage blood sugar. Overall, these gluten free garlic knots provide comfort and indulgence without sacrificing health or safety for sensitive individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can prepare Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots a day in advance. Simply bake them, cool completely, and store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. Reheat briefly in the oven before serving for best results.
To make dairy free garlic knots, substitute vegan butter for the regular butter and omit Parmesan or use a dairy free cheese alternative. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.
Absolutely. Bake and cool the knots completely, then freeze in a sealed bag for up to two months. Reheat in a warm oven straight from the freezer until heated through.
A gluten free all-purpose blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum works best for homemade gluten free garlic knots. Brands vary, so your favorite blend should yield great results if it’s designed for yeast-risen breads.
For egg free knots, substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia plus 3 tablespoons water, left to gel). This keeps the dough cohesive without egg.
Homemade Gluten Free Garlic Knots bring the irresistible aroma, texture, and flavor of classic Italian bakery treats right into your own kitchen—no gluten necessary. Whether you’re serving them as part of an elegant dinner, a casual get-together, or a cozy family meal, these soft, savory knots are bound to win everyone over. With plenty of tips for customization and simple dietary swaps, you can make this recipe work for any table. Bring bakery-fresh joy to your gluten free baking repertoire and delight in every garlicky, buttery bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten free all-purpose flour blend
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
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1In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
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2In a large bowl, mix the gluten free flour, salt, and olive oil. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
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3Dust your hands with flour and divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and tie into a knot.
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4Arrange knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let rise for 15 minutes.
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5Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18 minutes, or until golden.
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6Stir melted butter, garlic, and parsley together. Brush over warm knots before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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