Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons Yeast
- 1/4 cup Warm Water (about 110°F/43°C, slightly warm to the touch)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (for yeast proofing)
- 1/2 cup Butter
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1 cup Whole Milk (warmed)
- 3 large Eggs
- 5 to 5 1/4 cups Flour (plus more if dough is too sticky)
- 2 teaspoons Salt
For the Butter Brush
- 4 to 8 Tablespoons Butter (softened, divided use)
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine yeast, warm water, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Set aside for 5-10 minutes until the mixture bubbles and forms a foam, indicating the yeast is active.
- Warm Butter and Milk: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt together 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 cup whole milk. Heat gently until the butter is melted and the mixture is warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Mix the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine 5 to 5 1/4 cups flour and 2 teaspoons salt. Add the 3 eggs and the proofed yeast mixture. Once the butter and milk mixture has cooled to a warm temperature, add it to the bowl. Mix using a dough hook or by hand for 5-7 minutes until the dough starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl. If dough is very sticky, add an extra 1-3 tablespoons of flour gradually.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm spot. Allow it to rise until doubled in size, approximately 2 hours.
- Shape the Rolls: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Spread 4 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the dough. Fold the dough into thirds, layering it like a letter. Cut the dough into 1-inch wide strips. Take each strip and tie it into a knot. Arrange the knotted rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for them to expand.
- Second Rise and Preheat Oven: Let the shaped rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes until slightly puffed. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the knotted rolls in the preheated oven for 14-17 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top.
- Butter Brush and Serve: Remove rolls from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining 4 tablespoons of softened butter. Serve warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Notes
- To make garlic knots, mix 2-4 minced garlic cloves and fresh Italian parsley into the softened butter used for brushing after baking.
- Ensure the milk and butter mixture is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Adjust flour quantity as needed to achieve a soft but not sticky dough.
- For best results, let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm environment.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American