Print

Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Enjoy the irresistible taste of freshly baked homemade soft pretzels! With a crispy exterior and soft, chewy center, these pretzels are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun family baking project.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
  • 1 large egg yolk + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
  • Coarse salt for topping

Instructions

  • Activate Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  • Make Dough: Add salt and sugar to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
  • Let Dough Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  • Shape Pretzels: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a long rope and twist into a pretzel shape.
  • Baking Soda Bath: In a pot, bring 9 cups of water to a boil and stir in baking soda. Dip each pretzel into the water bath for 30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Egg Wash & Salt: Brush each pretzel with the egg wash (egg yolk + water mixture) and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  • Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Notes

  • If you don’t have coarse salt, regular salt can work, but the larger crystals are ideal for that classic pretzel texture.
  • For a softer, fluffier pretzel, let the dough rise a little longer (an extra 15-20 minutes).
  • Feel free to experiment with toppings, such as cinnamon sugar or garlic butter, after baking.

Nutrition