Homemade Soft Pretzels

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

This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together with the comforting aroma of fresh pretzels.

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

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.

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We love gathering around to enjoy these homemade pretzels as a cozy family treat.

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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Enjoy your homemade soft pretzels warm for the best taste and texture.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the purpose of boiling pretzels in baking soda?

Boiling pretzels in a baking soda solution gives the crust its characteristic deep golden color and chewy texture by promoting Maillard reaction during baking.

→ How long should the dough rise before shaping?

The dough should rise for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size to develop flavor and achieve a tender crumb.

→ Can I freeze the pretzels after baking?

Yes, baked pretzels freeze well; just reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes before serving.

→ What alternative toppings can I use instead of coarse salt?

For a sweeter option, brush with melted butter and coat pretzels with cinnamon sugar after baking.

→ Why is an egg wash used before baking?

Egg wash helps enhance the golden color and adds a slight sheen to the pretzels’ surface.

→ What tools are recommended for shaping pretzels?

A large mixing bowl, wooden spoon, and a floured surface for kneading help achieve the perfect dough consistency for shaping pretzels.