Homemade Soft Pretzels Snack

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

I first made these pretzels on a chilly afternoon and loved how they brought everyone to the kitchen.

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

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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 57 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 1215 minutes until deep golden-brown

Step 12:

Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving

Check doneness of meats, candy, and baked goods instantly for safer, perfectly cooked results.

Check price on Amazon

Check doneness of meats, candy, and baked goods instantly for safer, perfectly cooked results.

Check price on Amazon

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Making these pretzels has always been a favorite family tradition especially on weekends.

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

Nutritional Information

Calories 220 Total Fat 3 g Carbohydrates 42 g Protein 6 g per pretzel

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Cushioned mats provide comfort while cooking, absorbing spills near the sink and stove for cleaner meal prep.

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Enjoy your homemade soft pretzels fresh and warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe FAQs

→ Why boil pretzels in baking soda solution?

Boiling in baking soda water creates the signature chewy crust and deep golden color by altering the dough surface before baking.

→ Can I use a stand mixer for kneading dough?

Yes, a stand mixer with a dough hook can efficiently knead the dough until smooth and elastic.

→ How do I achieve a soft interior in pretzels?

Proper kneading and allowing the dough to rise fully contribute to the soft, chewy texture inside.

→ What substitutes exist for coarse sea salt topping?

You can skip salt and instead brush pretzels with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar for a sweet version.

→ Is freezing baked pretzels possible?

Yes, baked pretzels freeze well and can be reheated in an oven for several minutes to restore freshness.