Soft & delicious fresh baked Blueberry Knots

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, and when that bread is filled with sweet, juicy blueberries, it becomes an experience you’ll want to share with everyone you know. These Soft & Delicious Fresh Baked Blueberry Knots are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also a feast for the eyes! With their beautiful braided shape and a delightful glaze that shines, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a lazy summer weekend when my kids and I decided to spend the morning baking together. The kitchen was a whirlwind of laughter, flour, and—most importantly—blueberries! We picked them fresh from a local farm, and that sweet, tart flavor paired with soft, fluffy dough was a match made in heaven. As we twisted and knotted the dough, I was reminded of how special it is to create memories in the kitchen with loved ones. This recipe has since become a cherished family tradition, and it never fails to bring smiles to our faces.

So grab your apron and let’s get started! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at yeast dough for the first time, I promise you can make these delightful knots with ease. They’re sure to impress your family and friends and fill your home with warmth and sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why you’ll want to whip up these Blueberry Knots:

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even novice bakers can follow along. Plus, the dough comes together quickly!
• Family-Friendly: These knots are a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re not just delicious; they’re fun to make, and everyone loves to pull apart their own knot.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of soft, slightly sweet dough with bursts of fresh blueberries creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Topping them with a light glaze elevates them to another level of deliciousness.
• Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, serve them at brunch, or savor them as a delightful snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re perfect for any occasion!

These knots melt in your mouth, and the crispy edges contrast beautifully with the tender insides. The subtle sweetness of the glaze complements the fresh blueberries, making each bite a little moment of bliss.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: About 2 hours (includes rising time)

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: This recipe makes about 12 blueberry knots.

Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 180, Protein: 4g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 5g.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Soft & Delicious Fresh Baked Blueberry Knots:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of our dough, providing structure and texture.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast: Helps our knots rise beautifully and gives them that fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F): Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: For richness and flavor.
• 1 large egg: Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients.
• 2 cups fresh blueberries: The star of the show! Fresh or frozen can work here, but I recommend fresh for that juicy burst of flavor.
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delightful Blueberry Knots. I promise it’ll be worth every moment spent in the kitchen!

1st Step: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy. This step ensures your yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups of flour and salt. This mixture will help to evenly distribute the salt and flour.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Once the yeast is foamy, add the melted butter and egg to the milk mixture. Slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add more flour until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Don’t worry if the mixture feels a bit tacky at first; it will come together beautifully.
5. First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

2nd Step: Prepare the Blueberry Filling

1. Prep the blueberries: While the dough is rising, rinse your fresh blueberries gently under cold water. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside. If using frozen blueberries, there’s no need to thaw them; just keep them in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.

3rd Step: Shape the Knots

1. Divide the dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
2. Roll out the pieces: Take one piece of dough and roll it into a long rope, about 12 inches long. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; the beauty of homemade is in the imperfections!
3. Add blueberries: Place a few blueberries in the center of the rope and fold the dough over the filling. Pinch the edges to seal the blueberries inside.
4. Form the knot: Twist the dough rope into a knot shape, tucking the ends underneath to create a nice little bundle. Place the knot on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the dough pieces.
5. Second rise: Cover the knots with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. You want them to puff up nicely!

4th Step: Bake the Knots

1. Preheat the oven: While the knots are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Once the knots have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end—every oven is different!
3. Cool slightly: Remove the knots from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5th Step: Make the Glaze

1. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The consistency should be pourable but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk.
2. Glaze the knots: Drizzle the glaze over the slightly warm knots. Don’t be shy—let it drench those beauties in sweetness!

How to Serve

These Blueberry Knots are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the oven. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Breakfast Delight: Serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat.
• Brunch Star: Pair them with fresh fruit, yogurt, and a light salad for a beautiful brunch spread.
• Sweet Snack: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, either on their own or with a smear of cream cheese.

The combination of soft, fluffy dough and sweet blueberries will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Additional Tips

1. Don’t skip the kneading: Kneading the dough helps develop gluten, which gives the knots their chewy texture. Don’t rush this step!
2. Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice or swap blueberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries.
3. Adjust the baking time: Depending on your oven and the size of your knots, you may need to adjust the baking time. Look for that beautiful golden brown color!
4. Store properly: If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.
5. Make ahead: You can prepare the knots the night before, let them rise in the fridge, and bake them fresh in the morning. They’re perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize your Blueberry Knots to make them even more delicious:

• Lemon Blueberry Knots: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a refreshing citrus kick. A lemon glaze on top would also complement the blueberries beautifully!
• Chocolate Chip Blueberry Knots: Mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips with the blueberries for a decadent twist.
• Nutty Blueberry Knots: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a little crunch in every bite.
• Vegan Version: Swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. You can also use vegan butter.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen blueberries can be used, but don’t thaw them before adding them to the dough. This way, they’ll maintain their shape and juiciness while baking. Just be aware that they may release more moisture than fresh blueberries, so keep an eye on the baking time.

2. How do I store leftover knots?

Store any leftover blueberry knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking. This is a great time-saver for busy mornings!

4. Why didn’t my knots rise properly?

There could be a few reasons for this. Ensure your yeast is fresh and activated properly before mixing it with the other ingredients. Also, check that your dough is in a warm, draft-free area to rise. If your kitchen is too cold, consider placing it in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) to help it rise.

5. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just keep in mind that this may change the texture slightly, making it denser. You can also try using bread flour for a chewier texture.

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Conclusion

There you have it—Soft & Delicious Fresh Baked Blueberry Knots that are sure to become a favorite in your home! They’re perfect for sharing, but let’s be honest: you might want to keep a few all to yourself. With their tender, fluffy texture and the sweet burst of blueberries, these knots are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re a reminder of the joy that comes from baking and creating in the kitchen.

So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy these delightful knots together. Trust me; they won’t last long!