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Homemade Soft Pretzels

Close-up of several golden-brown soft pretzels topped with sesame seeds on a white plate.
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Learn how to make classic German-style soft pretzels at home. These pretzels have a chewy interior and a crisp, salty crust, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 10 cups water
  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons coarse pretzel salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long.
  6. Shape each rope into a pretzel.
  7. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
  8. Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, turning once.
  9. Remove pretzels with a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  10. Brush the tops of the pretzels with the egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
  11. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  12. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For a chewier pretzel, you can let the shaped pretzels rest on the counter for 10-15 minutes before boiling.
  • If you don’t have pretzel salt, you can use coarse sea salt.
  • These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://carlacooking.com/soft-pretzel-recipe-german-style/