Pin It Warm, golden-brown pretzels with a soft, chewy interior and classic salty crust—perfect for snacking or sharing.
This homemade pretzel recipe has been a favorite in our house for years—perfect for sharing or a cozy snack.
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.
Pin It This recipe brings back fond family moments spent baking and sharing fresh pretzels together.
Notes
Serve with mustard, cheese dip, or enjoy plain.
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.
Pin It These pretzels are the perfect homemade treat that impress and satisfy every time.
Your Questions Answered
- → What makes the pretzel crust crispy and salty?
Dipping the dough in a boiling baking soda solution before baking creates the classic pretzel crust. Sprinkling coarse sea salt on top adds the salty finish.
- → Can I substitute active dry yeast with instant yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be used as a substitute, but adjust the rising time accordingly since it acts faster.
- → How long should the dough rise for best texture?
Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size to achieve a soft and chewy interior.
- → What are good serving suggestions for these pretzels?
They pair wonderfully with mustard, cheese dips, or can be enjoyed plain for a classic snack experience.
- → How can I store leftover pretzels to keep them fresh?
Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in an oven for freshness.
- → Is it possible to make a sweet version of these pretzels?
Yes, omit the salt topping and brush with melted butter after baking. Then coat with cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.