Homemade Garlic Knots

Step 1 -Add the warm water, the yeast, and the granulated sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer with a dough hook or paddle attachment.

Step 2 -Cover it and let it rest for about 5 minutes.

Step 3 -Add the olive oil, the salt, the garlic powder, and 1 3/4 cups of the all-purpose flour and mix, about 15 seconds.

Step 4 -Add in the remaining 1 3/4 cups of the flour and beat on low speed for 2 minutes.

Step 5 -Using the extra flour, lightly dust a work surface, then turn the dough onto the prepared surface. Knead the dough, 3-4 minutes.

Step 6 -Grease a bowl with nonstick spray.

Step 7 -Put the dough into the prepared bowl, moving and turning it to coat all sides.

Step 8 -Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise at room temperature for about 2 hours.

Step 9 -Using the extra flour, lightly dust a new work surface, then turn the dough out onto the prepared work surface.

Step 10 -Punch the dough down to release the air.

Step 11 -Shape the dough into a 16x5-inch log. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the log into 16 (1-inch) strips.

Step 12 -Roll each of the strips into 8-inch ropes.

Step 13 -Tie the dough ropes into knots, tucking in the ends of the knot.

Step 14 -Place the knots on two parchment-paper-lined baking trays. Cover the knots and let them rest for about 30-45 minutes. This will produce softer, fluffier rolls.

Step 15 -Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 16 -While the knots rest, stir the melted butter, the garlic, the Italian seasoning, and the salt together.

Step 17 -Brush the butter mixture over the knots, reserving some for serving. Bake the knots until golden-brown on top, about 20-23 minutes.

Step 18 -Transfer the knots from the oven.

Step 19 -Brush the knots with the reserved butter mixture. Garnish with the parmesan cheese and the parsley.

Step 20 -Serve.