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Soft, pillowy knots of bread wrapped around melted cheese and brushed with aromatic garlic butter create an irresistible combination that's perfect for any gathering. These homemade treasures bring together the comfort of fresh bread with the satisfaction of stretchy, molten cheese in every bite.
During countless family gatherings, I've watched these knots disappear within minutes of hitting the table. The first time I made them, my nephew declared them 'better than pizza,' which might be the highest praise possible from a ten-year-old.
Essential Ingredients Guide
- Pizza dough (1 lb): fresh dough at room temperature works best for easy shaping
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup): shred your own for best melting properties
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): use good quality for the richest garlic coating
- Fresh garlic (4 cloves): mince finely for even distribution
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp): adds color and fresh flavor to the butter coating
Creating Your Perfect Cheese Knots
- Step 1: Preparing Your Workspace
- Start with room temperature dough for easier handling. Line your baking sheet with parchment and have your cheese measured and ready. Create your garlic butter first so it can infuse while you work with the dough.
- Step 2: Shaping The Knots
- Divide your dough into 12 equal pieces - a bench scraper makes this easy. Flatten each piece into a small rectangle, being careful not to tear the dough. Place cheese in the center, fold edges over, and twist into a knot shape, pinching seams firmly to seal.
- Step 3: Brushing And Baking
- Brush each knot generously with garlic butter before baking. Watch them carefully in the oven - they should turn golden brown and you might see a bit of cheese bubbling through. That's perfect! Give them another brush of butter right when they come out.
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My Italian grandmother taught me to always use freshly minced garlic, never pre-minced from a jar. 'The fresh garlic releases its oils into the butter,' she'd say, 'and that makes all the difference.'
Understanding Dough Temperature
Your dough needs to be completely at room temperature for easy shaping. Cold dough will fight you and potentially tear, letting the cheese escape during baking.
Cheese Selection Secrets
While mozzarella is traditional, mixing cheeses creates interesting flavors. Try adding a bit of sharp cheddar or smoky provolone to the mozzarella base.
Storage Solutions
These knots are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in the oven to restore their fresh-baked texture.
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After years of making these cheese-filled garlic knots, I've learned that they're more than just bread - they're memory makers. Whether served at casual game nights or holiday gatherings, they never fail to bring smiles and requests for the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap mozzarella for another cheese?
- Sure! Cheddar or provolone work too, but mozzarella gives the best gooey texture.
- → How do I avoid cheese spilling out?
- Pinch the dough edges firmly shut and don't overstuff with cheese.
- → Is it possible to prep these in advance?
- Yep, shape them and refrigerate. Butter and bake them when you're ready.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Pop them in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Warm them up in the oven before eating.
- → Can I freeze them for later?
- Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw, butter them up, and bake till golden.