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Easy Gluten-Free Savory Herb and Garlic Knots with Olive Oil – Beginner-Friendly Recipe
By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished Apr 21, 2026 · Updated May 12, 2026
Italian-American
40 mins
beginner-friendlyeasystep-by-stepgluten-freesavory-bakesno-fussminimal-ingredientspartysnackkid-friendly
Discover this simple and delicious recipe for gluten-free savory herb and garlic knots. Soft, fragrant, and brushed with olive oil and fresh herbs, these knots are an ideal beginner-friendly gluten-free bread snack, perfect for parties and family treats.
Prep
20 min
Cook
20 min
Total
40 min
Servings
12
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Italian-American
Ingredients
Servings
12
- 2 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum included)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (or mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 cup plain dairy-free yogurt or regular yogurt
- ¼ cup olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. This dry mix forms the base of your dough.
-
Add the yogurt and ¼ cup olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until a rough dough forms. It will be slightly sticky but should come together.
-
Lightly dust your work surface with gluten-free flour. Transfer the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
-
Roll each piece into a rope about 6 inches long. To form each knot, tie the rope loosely like a knot and tuck the ends under gently to hold the shape.
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Place each knot on the prepared baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
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In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brush this garlic olive oil mixture generously over each knot to enhance flavor and promote browning.
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Bake the knots for 18-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through on the bottom.
-
Remove from the oven and, if desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
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Allow the knots to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. They are best enjoyed warm.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reader questions and answers for this recipe will appear here.
Adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or pantry options for these gluten-free savory herb and garlic knots without compromising taste or texture:
- Flour Blend: If xanthan gum is not included, add separately or use a cassava or oat flour blend for a unique texture.
- Yogurt: Substitute with regular, coconut, almond, or soy-based plain yogurt for dairy-free and vegan options.
- Baking Powder: Replace with a mixture of ½ teaspoon baking soda and 1 teaspoon cream of tartar if baking powder is unavailable.
- Olive Oil: Swap with mild vegetable oils like avocado or sunflower oil to maintain moisture.
- Italian Herbs: Use fresh herbs (increase amounts by 50%) or swap with favorites such as rosemary, sage, or thyme.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used in the dough but reduce quantity slightly to avoid overpowering.
These substitutions keep the recipe accessible, adaptable, and delicious for varying dietary needs while maintaining softness and flavor.
Equipment Needed
To make these Easy Gluten-Free Savory Herb and Garlic Knots, you'll need a few basic kitchen tools that are perfect for beginners. Having these ready will help ensure a smooth baking process:
- Mixing Bowl: Large enough to combine dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk or Spoon: Whisk for dry ingredients; wooden spoon or rubber spatula for mixing dough.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Baking Sheet: Rimmed, to hold your knots during baking.
- Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy release and cleanup.
- Knife or Dough Cutter: To divide dough evenly into 12 pieces.
- Small Bowl: For mixing the garlic and olive oil glaze.
- Basting Brush: To evenly brush the garlic olive oil over knots.
- Oven Mitts: For safe handling of the hot baking sheet.
- Wire Cooling Rack: For cooling knots after baking to avoid sogginess.
These tools are common in most kitchens and perfect for beginner bakers tackling this gluten-free bread snack.
Ingredient Prep Notes
Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Use one with xanthan gum included for best dough elasticity. If not included, add 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum per cup of flour.
Baking Powder: Ensure it's fresh for optimal rising. Test by adding a tiny bit to warm water—if it bubbles immediately, it's good.
Garlic and Herbs: Mince fresh garlic finely to maximize aroma in the olive oil brush. If using dried Italian herbs substitute with equal parts oregano, basil, and thyme. Fresh parsley adds a nice garnish touch.
Yogurt: Use plain dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free option or regular yogurt otherwise. Vegan yogurts like coconut or almond-based should be plain and unsweetened.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin best for flavor; light olive oil acceptable for milder taste.
Ingredient Substitutions: For nut allergies, confirm gluten-free flour is nut-free. To reduce fat, lower olive oil to 3 tablespoons but this may reduce softness slightly. You can substitute up to half of the gluten-free flour with gluten-free whole grain flour like brown rice flour for added nutrition, but expect a denser texture.
Work Surface: Lightly dust with gluten-free flour to avoid sticking without drying dough.
Following these prep tips will ensure soft, flavorful, beginner-friendly gluten-free herb and garlic knots.
Oven Note
Key oven tips to bake perfect gluten-free savory herb and garlic knots, especially for beginners:
- Fully Preheat to 375°F (190°C): Ensures even baking and proper rise.
- Use the Middle Rack: Provides optimal, even heat for consistent browning.
- Verify Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to check accuracy and adjust baking times if needed.
- Minimize Opening Oven Door: Avoids heat loss that can affect the knots' rise and texture.
- Watch for Golden Brown Color: Knots should be golden on top and cooked through underneath. Tent with foil if browning too fast late in baking.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
- Cool on Wire Rack: After baking, this avoids sogginess and sets the texture.
These oven pointers help beginners achieve delicious, soft, and well-baked gluten-free savory knots every time.
Easy Upgrade Ideas
Add variety and elevate your gluten-free herb and garlic knots easily with these creative upgrades:
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or vegan cheese before baking for a golden cheesy crust.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Replace dried with fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for a bright flavor.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate smoked paprika or chili flakes for subtle heat and smokiness.
- Sweet & Savory: Brush knots lightly with honey or maple syrup along with garlic oil for balance.
- Stuffed Knots: Insert small pieces of sun-dried tomato, olives, or vegan cheese inside each dough rope before knotting for bursts of flavor.
- Flavorful Oils: Brush with herb-infused or chili garlic olive oils for an exciting twist.
- Finishing Touch: After baking, sprinkle with flaky sea salt or drizzle extra olive oil for attractive shine and taste.
These easy ideas keep the recipe beginner-friendly while adding fun, flavor, and impressive presentation.
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