Description

Few things rival the joy of biting into a warm, golden-brown soft pretzel, with its shiny, crackly crust and pillowy, chewy interior. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic treat from a fairground or looking to impress guests with homemade perfection, this recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups warm water (100–110°F / 38–43°C)

1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast

1 tsp granulated sugar

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp fine sea salt

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

10 cups water

⅔ cup baking soda

1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp water

Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt

Optional: melted butter, cinnamon sugar, shredded cheese

Instructions

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

2. Add flour, melted butter, and salt. Mix and knead with dough hook for 5–6 minutes until smooth.

3. Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

4. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.

5. Divide dough into 8 portions, roll each into 20-inch ropes, and shape into pretzels.

6. Bring 10 cups water and ⅔ cup baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 20–30 seconds.

7. Place pretzels on baking sheets, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with salt.

8. Bake 12–14 minutes until golden. Optional: brush with melted butter when done.

Notes

Store at room temperature for 2 days or freeze up to 2 months.

Best eaten fresh. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Try different toppings: cinnamon sugar, cheese, or garlic butter.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pretzel
Calories: 220
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 490mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 1.5g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: soft pretzels, homemade pretzels, easy pretzel recipe