Fresh & Fluffy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe For Beginners

Soft, warm pretzels with a golden-brown authentic soft pretzels recipe delight taste buds and spark joy in every bite.

Twisting dough into those classic pretzel shapes might seem tricky, but this method makes it simple.

Salt-sprinkled edges and a perfectly chewy interior create a bakery-worthy treat.

You can craft these pretzels with just a few basic ingredients found in most kitchen pantries.

The aroma of freshly baked pretzels will draw everyone to the kitchen, eager to sample your homemade creation.

These pretzels work magic as a snack, appetizer, or side that impresses without complicated techniques.

Dive into this straightforward recipe and watch your baking confidence rise with each delicious twist.

Pretzel Other Styles to Try

• Gluten-Free Pretzel Option: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend using rice or almond flour, ensuring the same soft texture while accommodating wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Soft Pretzels: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine, use almond milk instead of dairy milk, and replace egg wash with olive oil or plant-based milk for browning.
• Low-Sodium Wellness Version: Reduce salt in the dough, use herb seasoning instead of traditional salt topping, and create a lighter cheese sauce with reduced sodium content.
• Whole Wheat Protein Boost: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, adding extra nutritional value and a slightly nuttier flavor profile to the classic pretzel recipe.

FAQs

• Can I make the pretzels without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand on a clean surface. Mix ingredients and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

• What if my dough doesn't rise?

Check that your yeast is fresh and active. Ensure the water is warm (not hot) and the environment is draft-free and slightly warm. A temperature around 75-80°F works best for yeast activation.

• How do I know the pretzels are properly boiled?

They should look slightly puffy and have a slightly wrinkled surface after 30 seconds in the baking soda water. The brief boiling gives them that classic pretzel crust and deep brown color.

• Can I freeze the pretzel dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.

What Makes Homemade Pretzels a Treat

• Craft soft, golden pretzels with restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen.
• No professional skills needed – even beginner bakers can create deliciously impressive pretzels that everyone will love.
• Experiment with different salt toppings, add herbs, or swap cheese sauce flavors to match your mood and make each batch unique.
• Kneading and shaping pretzels offers a delightful hands-on cooking experience that's both relaxing and rewarding, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

What You’ll Need for Soft Pretzels

Main Ingredients:

• Flour: The foundational ingredient that provides structure for the soft pretzels.
• Warm Water: Helps activate the yeast and creates the dough's initial moisture.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the pretzel dough.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity in the dough.
• Active Dry Yeast: Essential for making the dough rise and creating a soft, airy texture.
• Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender pretzel texture.

• Water: Used for boiling the pretzels to create the signature chewy crust.
• Baking Soda: Gives pretzels their classic brown and crispy exterior.
• Egg: Creates a golden, shiny surface when used as an egg wash.
• Coarse Salt: Provides a classic pretzel topping with a crunchy salt finish.

• Butter, Flour: Create a roux as the base for the cheese sauce.
• Milk: Provides the liquid for the creamy cheese sauce.
• Cheese: Adds rich, melty flavor to the dipping sauce.
• Salsa Verde: Introduces a zesty twist to the traditional cheese sauce.

Steps to Bake Soft Pretzels at Home

Step 1: Awaken the Yeast

Combine warm water, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.

Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.

If the yeast doesn’t activate, it might be old and you’ll need a fresh packet.

Step 2: Create the Dough

• Flour
• Melted butter

Mix using a dough hook attachment on low speed.

Increase to medium speed and knead for 4-5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and stretchy.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Lightly oil the mixing bowl and place the dough inside.

Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour.

The dough should double in size.

A warm oven (turned off after briefly heating) works great for rising.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels

Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope.

Twist each rope into a classic pretzel shape.

Don’t worry about making them perfect – rustic is delicious!

Step 5: Prepare the Boiling Bath

Bring water and baking soda to a boil.

Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling mixture for 30 seconds.

This creates the signature chewy pretzel crust.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with salt.

Bake at 450°F for 12-14 minutes until they turn golden brown and puffy.

Step 7: Craft the Cheese Sauce

• Melting butter
• Whisking in flour
• Gradually adding milk to make a roux
• Stirring in cheeses
• Adding Salsa Verde

Simmer until the sauce becomes thick and luxurious.

Step 8: Serve and Devour

Brush freshly baked pretzels with melted butter.

Serve hot with the homemade cheese sauce.

Enjoy your warm, soft pretzels straight from the oven!

Soft Pretzel Tips and Tricks

• Use water between 110-115°F to ensure perfect yeast blooming without killing the microorganisms.
• Stop mixing when dough becomes smooth and slightly tacky, avoiding excess flour that can make pretzels dense.
• Place dough in a slightly warmed oven or near a heated surface to accelerate rising process and develop better flavor.
• Keep water at rolling boil and limit pretzel bath to 30 seconds for achieving that signature chewy, glossy exterior without making dough soggy.
• Use coarse kosher or pretzel salt for authentic taste and beautiful presentation, which adheres better than fine table salt.

Keep Pretzels Soft and Warm

• Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture, keeping them fresh for 2-3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual pretzels tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze up to 1 month for best quality. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Spritz pretzels lightly with water to restore moisture. Warm for 5-7 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy texture.
• Quickly toast pretzels in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side, creating a crisp exterior while maintaining soft interior.

What Pairs with Homemade Pretzels

• Pair Pretzels with Classic Beer: Match these soft, salty pretzels with a crisp German-style lager or wheat beer that complements their rich, bready flavor and cuts through the cheese sauce's creaminess.
• Enhance with Spicy Dipping Companions: Create a flavor explosion by serving the pretzels alongside additional dips like whole grain mustard, sriracha mayo, or jalapeño ranch to add excitement and contrast to the cheesy, salty base.
• Balance with Fresh Salad: Serve a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette alongside the pretzels to provide a fresh, tangy counterpoint that helps cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy appetizer.
• Refresh with Citrus Mocktail: Craft a zesty non-alcoholic drink with sparkling water, fresh lime juice, and a touch of mint to cut through the heaviness of the pretzels and cheese sauce, offering a bright and refreshing accompaniment.

Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Warm German-inspired Bavarian Soft Pretzels bring comfort and tradition to your kitchen, with golden-brown twists that crackle with sea salt. Simple ingredients and classic technique help you craft authentic pretzels perfect for snacking or sharing with friends.

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Ingredients

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Pretzel Dough:

• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (355 ml)
• 1 package active dry yeast (or 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Pretzel Preparation:

• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon water
• Pretzel salt, as desired
• Non-stick cooking spray

Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 packet (4 ounces) Velveeta cheese sauce
• 1/3 cup Salsa Verde
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. Awaken the yeast by blending warm water, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Sprinkle yeast and allow it to become frothy for approximately 5 minutes. Inactive yeast indicates it’s time for a fresh packet.
2. Incorporate flour and melted butter into the yeast mixture using a dough hook attachment. Knead on low speed, then increase to medium for 4-5 minutes until the dough transforms into a smooth, elastic consistency.
3. Lightly coat the mixing bowl with oil, transfer the dough, and cover with plastic wrap. Position in a warm environment for one hour, allowing the dough to double in volume. A briefly warmed oven provides an ideal rising location.
4. Segment the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 24-inch elongated rope, then craft into a pretzel shape with relaxed precision.
5. Prepare a boiling water and baking soda bath. Submerge each pretzel for 30 seconds to develop its distinctive chewy exterior.
6. Remove pretzels from the boiling liquid, brush thoroughly with egg wash, and generously sprinkle with salt. Bake at 450°F for 12-14 minutes until achieving a rich golden-brown color and optimal puffiness.
7. Simultaneously create the cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually introducing milk to form a roux. Fold in cheeses and Salsa Verde, simmering until achieving a luxurious, creamy consistency.
8. Complete the process by brushing pretzels with melted butter. Serve immediately alongside the prepared cheese sauce for an indulgent culinary experience.

Notes

• Choose fresh, active yeast to ensure proper rising and fluffy texture.
• Warm environment is crucial for dough development, so create a cozy spot for rising.
• Precise water temperature (110-115°F) activates yeast without killing it.
• Kneading develops gluten, creating that perfect chewy pretzel texture.
• Boiling in baking soda solution creates the classic golden-brown, crispy exterior.
• Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and consistently.
• Egg wash provides a glossy, attractive finish and helps salt adhere.
• Serve immediately for maximum crispness and flavor enjoyment.

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg