Garlic Butter Pretzel Knots

Garlic Butter Pretzel Knots are the perfect marriage of classic soft pretzels and warm, buttery garlic bread. These soft, chewy bites are shaped into cute knots, baked until golden, and then brushed generously with melted garlic herb butter. They are irresistible when served fresh and warm, especially with marinara sauce, cheese dip, or a creamy ranch dressing.

Homemade pretzel dough may sound intimidating, but once you realize how simple and satisfying it is to work with, this recipe becomes one you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re hosting a party, game night, or just craving a comforting treat, these pretzel knots will win everyone over.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together two comfort-food classics in the most delicious way. The warm, chewy interior complements the slightly crisp and beautifully browned exterior.

And that garlic butter coating? Rich, aromatic, and incredibly flavorful. Each knot feels like a miniature indulgence—soft enough to pull apart but sturdy enough to dip.

This recipe also offers a tactile joy—kneading, rolling, and knotting dough feels nostalgic and almost therapeutic. The aroma alone while they bake will have everyone hovering around the kitchen.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try recipe because:

• ✔ It’s easier than it looks—great for beginners.
• ✔ Perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish.
• ✔ Customizable with cheese, herbs, dipping sauces, or seasoning blends.
• ✔ Loved by kids and adults alike.
• ✔ Works for holidays, parties, and cozy nights in.

Once you taste the soft, golden, buttery knots, you’ll understand why this recipe becomes a household favorite.

Recipe Details

Category	Information
Cuisine	American / Bakery
Course	Snack / Appetizer / Side
Prep Time	20 minutes
Rise Time	1 hour
Cooking Time	14–16 minutes
Total Time	~1 hour 35 minutes
Servings	12–16 knots
Calories	Approx. 165 calories per knot

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Dough

• 1 cup warm water (110–115°F / 43–46°C)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 ½–3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath

• 6 cups water
• ⅓ cup baking soda

Topping Before Baking

• 1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water (egg wash)
• Optional: coarse pretzel salt

Garlic Butter Coating

• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced or grated
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
• Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Activate Yeast

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast.
2. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. Add melted butter and salt to yeast mixture.
2. Gradually stir in flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and stretchy.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place dough in a greased bowl.
2. Cover loosely and let rise 1 hour, or until doubled.

Step 4: Shape the Knots

1. Punch down dough and divide into 12–16 equal pieces.
2. Roll each into a rope about 8–10 inches long.
3. Tie each rope into a pretzel knot shape.

Step 5: Baking Soda Dip

1. Bring the water and baking soda to a boil.
2. Drop knots in batches for 20–30 seconds each.
3. Remove and place on a lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

1. Brush each knot with egg wash.
2. Sprinkle pretzel salt if desired.
3. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 14–16 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Coat with Garlic Butter

1. Mix melted butter, garlic, parsley, and optional Parmesan.
2. Brush generously over warm pretzel knots.

How to Serve

Serve warm with:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dip
• Nacho cheese sauce
• Honey mustard
• Cream cheese dip

They’re also delicious on their own!

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the baking soda bath—it creates the chewy pretzel texture.
• For softer knots, bake slightly less; for crispier, bake longer.
• If dough feels sticky, add flour 1 tbsp at a time.

Variations

Type	Change
Cheesy Pretzel Knots	Stuff dough with mozzarella cubes or sprinkle cheese after baking.
Spicy Version	Add chili flakes or cayenne to garlic butter.
Everything Bagel Style	Replace salt with everything seasoning.
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar	Skip garlic butter and toss in cinnamon sugar instead.

Storage & Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigeration: Store up to 4–5 days. Warm before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze up to 2 months.
  • Reheat from frozen at 350°F (177°C) until warm.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pot for baking soda bath
• Pastry brush

FAQ

Q: Can I use instant yeast?
Yes—skip proofing time and mix directly into the flour.

Q: Can I make dough ahead?
Yes—refrigerate up to 24 hours before shaping.

Q: Can these be made vegan?
Yes—use vegan butter and plant-based milk instead of egg wash.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Pretzel Knots are soft, chewy, flavorful, and absolutely addictive. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or making pretzel dough for the first time, this recipe offers foolproof steps and delicious results. They’re perfect for gatherings, snacks, or whenever comfort food calls—and once you make them, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen.