Why Make This Recipe
Homemade soft pretzels are a delicious snack that everyone loves. They are warm, chewy, and with a sprinkle of salt, they’re simply irresistible. Making them at home is easier than you might think. Plus, you can enjoy them fresh from the oven, which is a treat you won’t want to miss!
How to Make Homemade Soft Pretzels
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for sprinkling)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Divide the dough into equal pieces and shape them into pretzels.
- In a pot, boil 4 cups of water and add baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then place them on a baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Enjoy your homemade soft pretzels!
How to Serve Homemade Soft Pretzels
Homemade soft pretzels are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain or with dips like mustard, cheese sauce, or even chocolate. They make a great snack for parties or movie nights!
How to Store Homemade Soft Pretzels
If you have leftover pretzels, let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each pretzel in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Tips to Make Homemade Soft Pretzels
- Make sure your water is warm but not hot, as hot water can kill the yeast.
- Kneading the dough well is crucial for getting a chewy texture.
- You can add flavorings to the dough, like garlic powder or cheese, for a tasty twist.
Variation
You can try different toppings, such as cinnamon sugar for a sweet snack or sesame seeds for a nuttier flavor. Feel free to get creative with your favorite spices!
FAQs
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just add it directly to the flour without waiting for it to bubble.
2. How can I tell when the pretzels are done?
They should be golden brown on top. You can also tap them; if they sound hollow, they are done.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and boiling.
Soft Pretzels
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water Make sure it's warm, not hot.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup baking soda For boiling the pretzels.
- 1 large egg For egg wash.
- Coarse salt For sprinkling.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Let the dough rest for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Divide the dough into equal pieces and shape them into pretzels.
Cooking
- In a pot, boil 4 cups of water and add baking soda.
- Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then place them on a baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.