Irresistible Soft Pretzels: Easy Recipe for a Cozy Snack

There’s something magical about soft pretzels. Imagine biting into a warm, doughy twist that’s golden-brown on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with just a hint of salt to awaken your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket, and suddenly, all your worries melt away. Whether it’s game day, movie night, or simply a Tuesday that needs some pizzazz, these soft pretzels will steal the show and possibly your heart.

I still remember the first time I attempted to make these beauties. My friends were skeptical as I brandished my rolling pin like a knight wielding a sword. But when those pretzels emerged from the oven, golden and glistening with butter, their skepticism turned into raucous applause (or maybe that was just my dog barking in approval). Let’s dive into this recipe that promises not just deliciousness but also the chance for you to impress your friends—or at least distract them from your questionable dance moves during snack time.

I once made these pretzels for a family gathering, and the way my cousins devoured them was like watching children tear into a piñata—pure chaos and joy!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for better texture; it makes all the difference in achieving that chewy bite.

• Warm Water: Ensure it’s warm but not hot; this helps activate the yeast without killing it.

• Active Dry Yeast: Fresh yeast gives the best rise; check expiration dates before using.

• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances perfectly with the salty crust.

• Baking Soda: This is key for that iconic pretzel color; it creates that beautiful browning effect.

• Coarse Sea Salt: For sprinkling on top; it adds crunchiness and enhances flavor.

• Unsalted Butter: A generous brushing after baking ensures your pretzels are rich and flavorful.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Activate the Yeast: Start by mixing warm water with active dry yeast and brown sugar in a bowl. Allow it to sit until frothy—about five minutes—so you know it’s working its magic.

Create the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add your yeast mixture until everything comes together into a sticky dough.

Knead Away!: Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead for about five minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It should feel like a soft pillow by now!

Let It Rise: Place your kneaded dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—around one hour. This is where patience pays off!

Shape Your Pretzels: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once risen, pinch off pieces of dough and roll them into long ropes. Twist them into traditional pretzel shapes or get creative if you’re feeling adventurous!

Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring water to boil with baking soda added. Carefully dip each shaped pretzel into this bath for about 30 seconds before transferring them onto a lined baking sheet.

With these steps completed, you’re just moments away from enjoying those glorious soft pretzels. The anticipation is real!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dough, allowing it to rise, then shape into pretzels before boiling briefly in baking soda water for that iconic taste.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to sprinkle your soft pretzels with coarse sea salt, garlic powder, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soft pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.

I still remember the first time I made soft pretzels. My friends said they were better than those sold at the mall! Their enthusiasm made me feel like a culinary wizard.

FAQ

How do I achieve a shiny crust on my soft pretzels?

Boiling them in a baking soda solution before baking creates that beautiful shiny finish.

Can I freeze soft pretzels?

Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.

What’s the best way to serve soft pretzels?

Serve warm with mustard, cheese dip, or even chocolate sauce for variety.

Print

Soft Pretzels

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Soft pretzels are a deliciously warm, doughy snack that everyone loves. With their golden-brown crust and fluffy interior, these homemade soft pretzels are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy movie night. Impress your friends and family with the irresistible buttery flavor and delightful aroma of these soft pretzels, made right in your kitchen. Dive into this simple recipe and discover how easy it is to create a beloved treat that will have everyone asking for more.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ cup baking soda
• 1 tsp coarse sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. 1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water, active dry yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2. Create the Dough: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Gradually add the yeast mixture until a sticky dough forms.
3. 3. Knead: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4. Let Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
5. 5. Shape Pretzels: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Roll pieces of dough into long ropes and twist into pretzel shapes.
6. 6. Prepare Baking Soda Bath: Boil water with baking soda in a large pot. Dip each pretzel for about 30 seconds before placing on a lined baking sheet.
7. 7. Bake: Brush with melted butter, sprinkle with salt, and bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 soft pretzel (85g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 10mg