These Cottage Cheese Garlic Knots are soft, stretchy, and packed with flavor! Made with simple ingredients, they bring together garlic buttery goodness with a cheesy twist.
They’re perfect for any meal or as a tasty snack. I love serving them warm with some marinara for dipping—trust me, they won’t last long on the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cottage Cheese: I recommend using whole milk cottage cheese for the best flavor and creaminess. If you want a lighter version, low-fat cottage cheese works too, but it may be less rich.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour is perfect. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, you can substitute half with whole wheat flour, but the knots may be denser.
Baking Powder: This helps the knots rise and become fluffy. Be sure it’s fresh! If you don’t have baking powder, you can use a mixture of baking soda and cream of tartar as a substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but the taste won’t be as vibrant. About 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder will do.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, but you can use salted butter, just reduce any added salt in the recipe.
How Do I Ensure My Garlic Knots Are Soft and Fluffy?
The key to soft, fluffy garlic knots lies in the dough preparation and baking. Make sure not to overwork the dough; mix until just combined. Here’s how to keep them soft:
- Mix the ingredients gently, then allow the dough to rest for 10-15 minutes before shaping.
- Roll the dough into ropes gently, as too much pressure can create dense knots.
- Watch the baking time; take them out when they are golden but not overbaked to maintain softness.
Brushing them with the garlic butter right after baking seals in moisture and adds flavor. Enjoy your baking!
Cottage Cheese Garlic Knots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 1 cup cottage cheese (whole milk recommended)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
For The Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce, for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-18 minutes to bake, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal or snack. Total time is around 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make clean up a breeze later!
2. Make The Dough:
In a food processor or a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and the egg. Mix together by pulsing or stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
3. Shape the Knots:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Divide it into 10-12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope about 6 inches long. Take each rope and tie it into a knot, tucking the ends underneath. Place each knot on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
4. Bake the Knots:
Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
5. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the knots are baking, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. This flavorful mixture is what makes the knots extra special.
6. Brush and Serve:
When the knots are out of the oven, generously brush them with the garlic butter mixture while they’re still warm. They will soak up all that delicious flavor! Serve them warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, if you like.
These cottage cheese garlic knots are soft, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible! Enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors!
Can I Use Low-Fat Cottage Cheese Instead?
Yes, you can use low-fat cottage cheese, but keep in mind that it may yield a slightly different texture and flavor. Whole milk cottage cheese provides a creamier result, enhancing the richness of the knots.
Can I Make These Garlic Knots Without Baking Powder?
If you don’t have baking powder, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture of 1/4 teaspoon baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar for every teaspoon of baking powder needed. Just mix it in well with the dry ingredients!
How to Store Leftover Garlic Knots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Garlic Knots?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked knots before they go in the oven. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
