Homemade Soft Pretzels

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

I first made these pretzels for a family gathering and they disappeared within minutes—everyone loved the homemade touch and the perfect balance of flavors.

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

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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

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

Check price on Amazon

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My family always gathers around when I bake these pretzels turning ordinary days into warm, memorable moments filled with laughter and sharing.

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

Per pretzel: Calories 220 Total Fat 3 g Carbohydrates 42 g Protein 6 g

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Prep ingredients, rinse produce, and dry dishes efficiently with a built-in workstation designed for streamlined cooking.

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Enjoy these soft pretzels fresh out of the oven or reheat for a quick snack that's always delicious.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes the pretzels soft inside?

The dough is kneaded until smooth and elastic, then allowed to rise for an hour, which develops the soft, chewy texture inside.

→ Why dip pretzels in baking soda solution?

Dipping the shaped dough in a baking soda bath before baking helps develop the pretzel's signature golden-brown, slightly crisp crust.

→ Can I flavor the pretzels differently?

Yes, for a sweet twist, brush pretzels with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar after baking instead of salt.

→ How should I store leftover pretzels?

Leftover pretzels can be frozen and later reheated in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore their texture.

→ What dips go well with these pretzels?

Mustard, cheese dip, or simply enjoying them plain are all delicious options that complement the flavors.