Classic Soft Pretzels Recipe

German · Snack · 35 min total

These homemade soft pretzels are golden brown, chewy on the inside, and perfectly salted on the outside. A fun and delicious snack that's easier to make than you think.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Coarse sea salt for topping

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and melted butter; stir until a dough forms.
3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled.
4. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Shape into a pretzel: form a U, cross the ends, then press them onto the bottom of the U.
6. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush pretzels with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly. Serve warm.

Tips

• For a shiny crust, brush with egg wash just before baking.
• Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
• Serve with mustard or cheese sauce for dipping.

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