Homemade Soft Pretzels

Warm, golden-brown pretzels with a soft, chewy interior and classic salty crust perfect for snacking or sharing.

I love making these pretzels at home because the smell fills the kitchen and brings back fond memories of family gatherings.

Ingredients

• Dough: 1 ½ cups (360 ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C) 2 ¼ tsp (7 g 1 packet) active dry yeast 1 tbsp (12 g) granulated sugar 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour 1 tsp (6 g) fine sea salt 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter melted
• Boiling & Topping: 10 cups (2.4 L) water ⅔ cup (90 g) baking soda 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp water Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

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Step 1:

In a large bowl combine warm water yeast and sugar Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy

Step 2:

Add flour salt and melted butter Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms

Step 3:

Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 7 minutes until smooth and elastic

Step 4:

Place dough in a greased bowl cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size

Step 5:

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) Line two baking sheets with parchment paper

Step 6:

In a large pot bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a boil

Step 7:

Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces Roll each into a 20 inch (50 cm) rope

Step 8:

Shape each rope into a pretzel form a U twist the ends twice then press onto the bottom of the U

Step 9:

Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling baking soda solution for 30 seconds use a slotted spatula to transfer to prepared baking sheets

Step 10:

Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt

Step 11:

Bake for 12 15 minutes until deep golden brown

Step 12:

Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

Dispense soap hands-free for quick handwashing and easier cleanup while cooking and handling ingredients.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe always brings my family together around the table for a cozy snack time.

Notes

For cinnamon sugar pretzels skip the salt topping After baking brush with melted butter and coat in cinnamon sugar Serve with mustard cheese dip or enjoy plain You can freeze baked pretzels reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 7 minutes

Required Tools

Large mixing bowl Measuring cups and spoons Wooden spoon Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) Large pot Slotted spatula Baking sheets Parchment paper Pastry brush

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat (gluten) Eggs Milk (butter) May contain traces of nuts or soy if ingredients are processed in shared facilities Always double check labels for allergens

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Soft, absorbent towels keep counters dry while cooking, wiping spills, and handling dishes during everyday recipe prep.

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Enjoy these soft pretzels fresh out of the oven or reheated If desired customize with toppings for varied flavors

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What creates the classic pretzel crust?

Boiling pretzels briefly in a baking soda solution before baking helps develop the signature golden-brown, chewy crust.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated after the first rise to develop flavor, then shaped and baked later.

→ How do I achieve a soft interior texture?

Kneading the dough well and allowing a full rise before shaping ensures a tender and chewy crumb inside.

→ What toppings work well besides coarse salt?

Try cinnamon sugar after baking for a sweet twist or serve with mustard and cheese dips for extra flavor.

→ How should I store leftover pretzels?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them; reheat in a warm oven to restore freshness.