Garlic Pretzel Knots Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps activate the yeast.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pretzel knots.

Active dry yeast: Leavens the dough, making it rise and become fluffy.

Water: Warm water helps activate the yeast and brings the dough together.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the dough and the garlic butter topping.

Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the knots with a robust, savory flavor.

Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the garlic butter topping.

When kneading the dough, ensure you use a floured surface to prevent sticking. Knead with the heels of your hands, pushing the dough away from you, then folding it back over itself. This process helps develop the gluten, giving the pretzel knots their chewy texture. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface and your hands.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though it may make the pretzel knots denser.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and helps with browning, but it will add a slight honey flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the pretzel knots.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be mixed directly with dry ingredients and may reduce rising time.

• warm water - Substitute with milk: Milk can make the dough richer and softer, adding a slight sweetness.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a different flavor profile and is a healthier fat option.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a good dairy-free alternative.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a similar flavor without the texture of minced garlic.

• fresh parsley - Substitute with dried parsley: Dried parsley can be used in smaller quantities as it has a more concentrated flavor.

• Allow the garlic pretzel knots to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled pretzel knots in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Ensure that the container or bag is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Store the pretzel knots at room temperature if you plan to consume them within 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to keep them fresh for up to a week.
• To freeze, wrap each pretzel knot individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to prevent freezer burn and keeps them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped pretzel knots in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the pretzel knots at room temperature for about an hour. For a quicker option, microwave them on a low setting for 20-30 seconds.
• To reheat and restore their original texture, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzel knots on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until they are warm and slightly crispy.
• For an extra burst of flavor, brush the reheated pretzel knots with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle with additional garlic and parsley before serving.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the garlic pretzel knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through. For an extra touch, brush them with a bit more melted butter mixed with minced garlic and chopped parsley before serving.

• Microwave Method: Place the pretzel knots on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough; if not, continue to heat in 10-second intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become chewy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the garlic pretzel knots directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. You can brush them with additional garlic butter if desired.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the pretzel knots in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are not overcooking. This method will give them a nice, slightly crispy exterior.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the garlic pretzel knots in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through. This method will keep them soft and flavorful.

• Oven: Used to bake the pretzel knots at the required temperature of 425°F (220°C).

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast, and to mix the dough.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the flour and warm water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the sugar, salt, and yeast.

• Wooden spoon: Used to mix the dough ingredients together until a dough forms.

• Floured surface: Used to knead the dough without it sticking.

• Knife: Used to divide the dough into 8 pieces.

• Baking sheet: Used to place the pretzel knots on for baking.

• Small bowl: Used to combine the melted butter, garlic, and parsley.

• Pastry brush: Used to brush the garlic butter over the warm pretzel knots.

• Garlic press: Used to mince the garlic cloves.

• Chopping board: Used to chop the fresh parsley.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and prepare all ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter before starting.

Use a stand mixer: Save time by using a stand mixer to mix and knead the dough.

Preheat oven early: Preheat your oven while you prepare the dough to save time.

Garlic butter in advance: Prepare the garlic butter mixture while the pretzel knots are baking.

Batch process: Roll and tie all dough pieces before placing them on the baking sheet for a smoother workflow.