Homemade Soft Pretzels

Name: Homemade Soft Pretzels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 pretzels
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 1/2 cups warm water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2/3 cup baking soda; Coarse sea salt; Butter, melted

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Create the ultimate snack with these delicious homemade soft pretzels! Soft, chewy, and perfectly salted, these pretzels are a fun and easy treat to make at home. Perfect for sharing at festive gatherings or cozy movie nights, they pair wonderfully with your favorite dips and mustard. This recipe is not just a snack; it's an experience that will bring joy to your kitchen.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-12-09T15:21:05.278Z

Discover the joy of making your own pretzels with this simple and delightful recipe!

The Joy of Homemade Pretzels

Making homemade soft pretzels is a delightful experience that transports you back to the streets of your favorite festival. The aroma of baking bread fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that invites friends and family to gather around. Not only do these pretzels taste fantastic, but the process of shaping and boiling them adds a fun element to your baking routine. Your loved ones will appreciate the care you put into making each pretzel, and the shared experience of enjoying them fresh from the oven makes it all the more special.

These pretzels have a unique texture that sets them apart from store-bought options. The combination of boiling in baking soda water followed by baking results in a beautiful, soft interior and a slightly chewy exterior that gets a satisfying crunch when you bite into them. The coarse sea salt that tops these pretzels enhances the flavor, making each bite a perfect harmony of salty and soft flavors. You can even customize them with various toppings, allowing you to create a snack experience tailored to your taste.

Perfect Pairings for Your Pretzels

Soft pretzels are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of dips and spreads. Classic choices include mustard and cheese sauce, but you can also experiment with different flavors to elevate your snack game. For a sweet twist, try serving them with cinnamon sugar and a side of cream cheese frosting. These combinations will surprise your guests and are perfect for dipping during movie nights or while hosting gatherings.

Additionally, don’t underestimate the power of creative toppings. Consider adding grated cheese, garlic butter, or even herbs before baking. These additions can transform a simple soft pretzel into a gourmet appetizer. Whether you are hosting a party or simply enjoying a lazy afternoon at home, elevating your pretzel game with dips and toppings will ensure that your culinary creation impresses everyone.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful pretzel-making experience!

Pretzel Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup baking soda

Topping

Coarse sea salt
Butter, melted

Now that you have all the ingredients, it's time to make your pretzels!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your homemade soft pretzels!

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place it in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour.

Shape the Pretzels

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and twist it into a pretzel shape.

Boil the Pretzels

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds on each side before placing on a baking sheet.

Bake and Serve

Brush the pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy!

Enjoy your freshly baked pretzels!

Storing and Reheating Your Pretzels

If you find yourself with leftover pretzels, worry not! Homemade soft pretzels can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but with proper storage, they can last for up to two days. When you're ready to indulge again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will restore their delightful texture and warmth, making them enjoyable once more.

For long-term storage, consider freezing pretzels. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, just reheat from frozen in the oven at the same temperature, adding a few minutes to the cooking time for the best results.

Tips for Perfect Pretzels

Achieving the perfect soft pretzel requires a few simple techniques. First, ensure that your water is warm—not too hot or cold—when dissolving the yeast. The ideal temperature is between 110°F and 120°F (43°C to 49°C). This will activate the yeast properly and help your dough rise beautifully. Additionally, be careful not to over-knead your dough; a smooth, elastic texture is what you want without making it tough.

When it comes to shaping your pretzels, practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if they don’t look perfect at first. Each twist and shape is unique, and even the imperfect ones taste delicious. Finally, don’t skip the boiling step; it’s essential for developing the signature pretzel crust. An even coating of baking soda in the boiling water gives your pretzels that deep, golden color and authentic flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the pretzels?

Yes, you can freeze the pretzels after baking. Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer.

→ What dips go well with pretzels?

Mustard, cheese sauce, and chocolate dip are great choices!