Irresistible Homemade Cheesy Knots: A Delicious Baking Experience

There’s nothing quite as inviting as the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, and these Homemade Cheesy Knots are here to make that experience even more delightful. These pillowy knots, filled with a creamy mixture of feta and curd cheese and topped with sesame seeds, are a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe promises to become a staple in your kitchen.

What Are Homemade Knots?

Homemade knots are soft, buttery bread rolls shaped like elegant knots, often with fillings that add a flavorful twist. Their origins can be traced to traditional Mediterranean baking, where bread is often enriched with cheese or herbs for a savory kick. These knots blend the simplicity of comfort food with a touch of sophistication, making them a popular choice for everything from dinner parties to casual brunches.

Why Everyone Will Love These Knots

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: The milk and butter in the dough create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of feta and curd cheese adds a tangy and creamy filling that elevates each bite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a standalone snack.
• Visually Appealing: Their intricate knot shape adds a touch of elegance to any table

Tips for Perfect Homemade Knots

• Fresh yeast ensures your dough rises properly and yields a fluffy texture.
• Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic—this helps develop gluten for structure.
• Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for the best texture.
• The egg yolk and milk wash create a beautiful golden crust.
• Swap out the cheese filling with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs for variety.

Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Dry Yeast?

Yes, you can substitute instant yeast directly. However, reduce the quantity slightly, as instant yeast is more concentrated.

What if I Don’t Have Curd Cheese?

Ricotta or cream cheese are excellent substitutes for curd cheese.

Can I Make These Knots Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Shape and bake the knots fresh the next day.

How do I Ensure The Knots Stay Soft After Baking?

Brush the knots with butter immediately after baking and store them in an airtight container.

How to Store Homemade Knots

These knots are best enjoyed fresh, but they store well too. After they’ve cooled completely. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm them in the oven before serving.

Alternatively, you can freeze baked knots in a zip-top bag for up to a month. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

How to Make Homemade Cheesy Knots

Step 1

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, water, sugar, yeast, vegetable oil, and egg white. Stir well.

In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, water, sugar, yeast, vegetable oil, and egg white. Stir well.

Step 2

Step 2

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 3

Step 3

Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.

Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Step 4

Incorporate the butter and knead further.

Incorporate the butter and knead further.

Step 5

Step 5

Cover with cling film and let it rise for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Cover with cling film and let it rise for 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Step 6

In a small bowl, mix feta and curd cheese until well combined.

In a small bowl, mix feta and curd cheese until well combined.

Step 7

Step 7

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.

Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.

Step 8

Step 8

Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten and brush with melted butter.

Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten and brush with melted butter.

Step 9

Step 9

Spread a portion of the cheese mixture onto one side, roll it up, and shape it into a knot.

Spread a portion of the cheese mixture onto one side, roll it up, and shape it into a knot.

Step 10

Step 10

Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for 30 minutes.

Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a cloth and let them rise for 30 minutes.

Step 11

Step 11

Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Brush the knots with the egg yolk and milk mixture, then sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Brush the knots with the egg yolk and milk mixture, then sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Step 12

Step 12

Bake for 35 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown.

Bake for 35 minutes, or until the knots are golden brown.

Step 13

Step 13

Let them cool slightly and serve warm.

Let them cool slightly and serve warm.