3-4tablespoonmilk, or as needed for desired consistency
1teaspoonvanilla extract
Instructions
Make the dough according to recipe instructions, including refrigerating overnight. You can make the entire dough amount and pull half the dough from the fridge (using the other half for another recipe) or you can halve the dough recipe. You can also use the full amount of dough if you want to make 12 knots, but you will need to double the amount of filling and glaze.
Combine filling ingredients in a small bowl and set aside (do not refrigerate as you won't be able to spread it).
Roll dough out into a long rectangle that's about ¼-inch thick and roughly 14 by 12 inches. Spread filling all over dough with an offset spatula, as far to all the edges as possible.
Fold the bottom third of the dough one third of the way to the center and then the top third of the dough over that, as you would fold a letter.
With a sharp knife or pastry cutter, cut dough in half width wise. From each half, cut 3 strips of dough, about 2-3 inches wide. Roll over each strip of dough gently to elongate it slightly. From each strip, make two cuts vertically, leaving the top folded portion intact (see video). You should have 3 long pieces to braid. Braid these three strips together and then roll up the entire braid into a knot.
Place knots in a greased jumbo muffin tin (you can also place them on a baking sheet, but you won't get quite the same height). Cover the muffin tin loosely with plastic wrap and allow to proof until almost doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 375° F. Place muffin tin on a larger parchment-lined baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake knots for 13-15 minutes, or until golden brown. There most likely will be some filling seepage. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes in the muffin pan, and then remove each knot from the pan and onto a plate or platter.
Mix together glaze ingredients and dip the tops of each warm knot in the glaze. Serve warm or at room temperature. Knots keep well at room temperature, covered, for a few days and can be frozen for one month.