The Best Homemade Soft Pretzel Recipe
If you're searching for the perfect homemade soft pretzel recipe, you've come to the right place! Soft pretzels are a delicious snack that can be enjoyed any time of day, whether as a treat with mustard, cheese, or even chocolate. This easy recipe will guide you through the steps to create delicious, golden-brown soft pretzels right at home.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then transfer it to a clean surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
3. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. This baking soda bath is crucial as it gives the pretzels their distinct flavor and chewy texture.
4. Shape the Pretzels
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 20 inches in length, and shape it into a pretzel.
To shape a pretzel, create a U-shape with the dough, cross the ends over each other twice, and then twist them down towards the bottom. Press the ends into the center of the pretzel to secure them.
5. Boil the Pretzels
Carefully add the shaped pretzels one at a time to the boiling baking soda bath. Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake the Pretzels
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg for a glossy finish and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
7. Enjoy Your Pretzels!
Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as mustard or cheese sauce, for a truly delightful snack.
Tips for the Perfect Pretzel
- Be sure to use warm water—not too hot, as it can kill the yeast.
- Don’t skip the baking soda bath; it’s key for flavor and texture.
- Experiment with toppings! Try sesame seeds, garlic salt, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat.
This homemade soft pretzel recipe is sure to become a family favorite! Perfect for parties, game day, or a cozy night in, these pretzels are both fun to make and delicious to eat!