Homemade Soft Pretzels

Name: Homemade Soft Pretzels
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 pretzels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons); 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup baking soda; 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash); Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes

Enjoy the delightful taste of warm, freshly baked soft pretzels right from your kitchen. Perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T22:22:27.795Z

Making homemade soft pretzels is a fun and rewarding experience. The combination of a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior makes them irresistible. Whether enjoyed plain, with mustard, or paired with cheese dip, these pretzels are sure to become a favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, soft, and chewy texture that satisfies every craving
Customizable toppings to suit your taste
Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy movie night

      

The Joy of Making Pretzels at Home

There's something irresistibly charming about baking soft pretzels at home. The smell of warm dough, combined with the salty crunch of the exterior, creates an inviting atmosphere that fills your kitchen. Making pretzels is not just about the final product; it's a delightful experience that brings family and friends together. Each step in the process, from kneading the dough to shaping the pretzels, offers a chance for creativity and fun.

When you bake soft pretzels, you have full control over the ingredients and flavors, allowing you to tailor them to your preferences. Whether you prefer classic salted pretzels, sweet cinnamon sugar versions, or gourmet toppings like cheese or garlic, the possibilities are endless. This versatility makes homemade pretzels a fantastic option for any occasion.

Perfect Pairings for Soft Pretzels

Soft pretzels make a great snack on their own, but they can be even more delightful when paired with various dips and sides. Traditional choices like mustard and cheese sauce offer a nice contrast to the chewy texture of the pretzels. You can also experiment with sweet dips like chocolate sauce or caramel for a unique twist that kids will love.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving your pretzels alongside hearty soups or stews. The warm, doughy goodness complements rich flavors beautifully. Hosting a gathering? Soft pretzels can easily be a crowd-pleaser when served at parties or game days. With customizable toppings and dips, you can create a pretzel bar that guests can enjoy to their heart's content.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Pretzels

Ingredients

For the Pretzels

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup baking soda
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy. Add the salt and flour, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Shape the Pretzels

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and twist it into a pretzel shape.

Place shaped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Boil and Bake

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds, then remove and place back on the baking sheet. Brush with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Finish Baking

Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Success

To ensure your pretzels turn out perfectly, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Too much flour can lead to dense pretzels, while too little can cause them to fall apart. Use a kitchen scale if possible for precise measurements, especially with flour and water.

Pay attention to the dough's consistency during the kneading process. It should be smooth and elastic. If it feels too sticky, add a little more flour, but do so gradually to avoid making the dough too dry. Proper kneading is key to achieving that perfect chewy texture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your pretzel toppings! Besides the classic coarse sea salt, consider trying everything bagel seasoning, grated parmesan, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra kick. For a sweet version, add cinnamon and sugar right after brushing with the egg wash.

Another fun variation is to incorporate different flavors into the dough itself. Try adding herbs like rosemary or spices such as smoked paprika to the dough for a unique twist. These variations will elevate your homemade pretzels and make them even more enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the pretzels?

Yes, you can freeze the pretzels after baking. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with soft pretzels?

Soft pretzels are great with mustard, cheese dip, or even chocolate sauce for a sweet treat!

→ How do I know if my yeast is active?

If the yeast mixture becomes frothy after 5 minutes, it is active and ready to use.

→ Can I make these pretzels gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to check for specific ratios.