Save These Hot Honey Ricotta Stuffed Garlic Knots are a masterful blend of textures and flavors. Soft, protein-packed dough is carefully knotted around a creamy ricotta center, then finished with a savory garlic butter and a signature sweet-and-spicy drizzle. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a gourmet snack, these knots offer a sophisticated twist on an Italian-American classic.
Save The aroma of fresh garlic and herbs baking in the oven makes these knots irresistible even before they are served. The high-protein dough provides a sturdy yet tender crumb that perfectly encapsulates the molten ricotta filling, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Protein Dough: 1 cup (120 g) plain Greek yogurt (2% or whole), 1 cup (120 g) self-rising flour, 1 scoop (30 g) unflavored or plain whey protein powder, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- Ricotta Filling: 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs, 1/4 tsp black pepper, Salt to taste
- Garlic Butter: 3 tbsp (40 g) unsalted butter, 3 cloves garlic (finely minced), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Hot Honey: 1/3 cup (80 ml) honey, 1–2 tsp hot sauce, Pinch of chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, self-rising flour, protein powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
- Step 3
- In a small bowl, mix the ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian herbs, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Step 4
- Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and flatten each piece into a disc about 3 inches wide.
- Step 5
- Place a heaping teaspoon of ricotta filling in the center of each disc. Pinch the edges to seal, roll into a rope, and tie into a knot, tucking the ends underneath.
- Step 6
- Arrange knots on the baking sheet, cover with a clean towel, and let rest.
- Step 7
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, add minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then stir in parsley.
- Step 8
- Brush each knot generously with the prepared garlic butter.
- Step 9
- Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 10
- Combine honey, hot sauce, and optional chili flakes in a bowl and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until runny.
- Step 11
- Remove knots from the oven, immediately drizzle with hot honey, and serve warm.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
These knots are best enjoyed fresh to appreciate the contrast between the warm dough and the creamy filling. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated in a low oven to restore their soft texture and aromatic flavor.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter filling, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese. Additionally, the heat level of the hot honey can be easily adjusted by adding more or less hot sauce and chili flakes according to your preference.
Serviervorschläge
For extra flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle the knots with more Parmesan cheese or finely chopped chives just before serving. They make an excellent centerpiece for any appetizer platter.
Save Indulge in these golden-brown knots that prove healthy ingredients like Greek yogurt and protein powder can be transformed into a truly decadent treat. Whether for guests or a personal snack, these stuffed garlic knots are a guaranteed hit.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these knots ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking. For best results, bake fresh and add the hot honey drizzle just before serving.
- → What can I substitute for the protein powder?
You can replace the whey protein powder with an equal amount of self-rising flour, or use a plant-based protein powder if preferred. The dough will still work, though the protein content per knot will be slightly lower. The texture remains soft and pillowy either way.
- → How do I store and reheat leftover knots?
Store cooled knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the dough tough. Add fresh hot honey after reheating.
- → Can I freeze the un baked knots?
Absolutely! Arrange shaped, raw knots on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time. Brush with garlic butter before baking as usual.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Start with 1 teaspoon of hot sauce in the honey mixture for mild heat, or increase to 2 teaspoons for medium spice. Add chili flakes for extra kick. You can also serve the hot honey on the side and let guests drizzle their own amount.