Nothing beats the warm, buttery aroma of freshly baked soft pretzels wafting through your kitchen. These golden-brown delights are soft, chewy, and sprinkled with coarse salt, making them the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to pretzel perfection. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Soft Pretzels

  1. Irresistibly Chewy Texture: Perfectly soft on the inside with a golden-brown crust.
  2. Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples make this recipe accessible for everyone.
  3. Fun to Make: Twisting pretzel shapes is a fun activity for all ages.
  4. Versatile: Enjoy them plain, with cheese sauce, or sweetened with cinnamon sugar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe yields 8-10 soft pretzels, depending on the size and shape you choose.

For the Dough:

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

For the Baking Soda Bath:

  • 10 cups water
  • 2/3 cup baking soda

For Topping:

  • 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • Coarse salt (for sprinkling)

How to Make Baked Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is activated.
  2. Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough begins to form.
  3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle with a little more flour as needed.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Pro Tip: For the best rise, place the dough in a warm spot. The top of the refrigerator or near a sunny window works well!

Step 2: Shape the Pretzels

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces.
  3. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20-24 inches in length. Form the ropes into pretzel shapes by creating a U-shape, crossing the ends, and pressing them down onto the bottom of the U.

Step 3: Baking Soda Bath

  1. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle boil.
  2. Carefully place each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 20-30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzels and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Why the Baking Soda Bath? This step creates the signature chewy texture and golden-brown color of soft pretzels by alkalizing the dough.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

  1. Brush each pretzel with beaten egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
  2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the pretzels are golden brown.
  3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Dip: Serve with warm cheese sauce or mustard for a savory treat.
  • Sweet Twist: Brush pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a dessert-style snack.
  • Charcuterie Addition: Pair pretzels with meats, cheeses, and pickles for a fun party platter.

Tips for Perfect Pretzels

  1. Measure Carefully: Properly measure flour using the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense dough.
  2. Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: This step is essential for the texture and appearance of authentic soft pretzels.
  3. Experiment with Shapes: Try knots, bites, or twists for a fun variety.
  4. Storage: Store pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore softness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze soft pretzels?

Yes! After baking, allow the pretzels to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and slightly denser texture.

What if I don’t have coarse salt?

Kosher salt is a great alternative. You can also skip the salt topping and brush the pretzels with butter for a plain version.

Conclusion: Homemade Pretzel Perfection

Baking soft pretzels at home is easier than you might think and incredibly rewarding. With their irresistible aroma, chewy texture, and endless topping possibilities, these pretzels are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you enjoy them savory or sweet, you’ll love this versatile and crowd-pleasing snack. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start twisting—pretzel perfection awaits!

Happy baking!