Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

Soft, chewy, and golden brown, these homemade soft pretzels are perfect for snacking, sharing, or dipping! With simple pantry ingredients and a classic baking soda bath, you can recreate this bakery favorite at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly soft and chewy texture with a golden crust.
• Simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Fun and easy to shape, making it a great activity for kids and adults alike.
• Versatile—serve with a variety of dips or enjoy plain.
• Freshly baked, warm pretzels that rival any store-bought version.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
• 1 large egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• Coarse salt for topping

Directions

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast.
• Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.

2. Make the Dough

• Add salt and sugar to the yeast mixture and stir.
• Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms.
• Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Let the Dough Rise

• Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides.
• Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape the Pretzels

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a long rope (about 20 inches) and twist into a classic pretzel shape.

5. Baking Soda Bath

• Bring 9 cups of water to a boil in a large pot and stir in the baking soda.
• Dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.

6. Egg Wash and Topping

• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water to create an egg wash.
• Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.

7. Bake the Pretzels

• Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestion

• Serve warm with your favorite dips, such as cheese sauce, mustard, or honey butter.
• Enjoy plain for a classic, salty snack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 8 pretzels
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rising time: 1 hour
• Cook time: 12–15 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Sweet Pretzels: Skip the coarse salt and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking.
• Stuffed Pretzels: Fill the dough with cheese, chocolate, or your favorite filling before shaping.
• Herb-Topped Pretzels: Sprinkle with dried herbs like rosemary or oregano for a savory twist.
• Mini Pretzel Bites: Cut the dough into small pieces and shape into bites before boiling and baking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked pretzels for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast works well. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.

Why is the baking soda bath necessary?

The baking soda bath gives the pretzels their signature golden color and chewy texture.

Can I skip the egg wash?

The egg wash helps create a shiny, golden crust, but you can skip it or use melted butter instead.

What’s the best flour to use for pretzels?

All-purpose flour works great, but bread flour can be used for a slightly chewier texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dough, let it rise, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What if my dough is too sticky?

Add a tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading until the dough becomes smooth and manageable.

Can I use a different topping?

Absolutely! Try sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or shredded cheese.

How do I ensure my pretzels are soft?

Avoid overbaking and ensure the dough isn’t too dry during kneading.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients to make a larger batch, and bake in multiple batches if necessary.

What if I don’t have coarse salt?

Use flaky sea salt or kosher salt as an alternative.

Conclusion

These homemade soft pretzels are a delicious and satisfying treat that’s easy to make. With their warm, chewy texture and golden crust, they’re perfect for parties, game days, or as an afternoon snack. Try them today and enjoy the irresistible taste of freshly baked pretzels!

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