Description

These Buttery Soft Pretzels are perfectly chewy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and brushed with warm melted butter for a mouthwatering flavor. Enjoy them with mustard, cheese sauce, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist. They’re fun to make and absolutely delicious!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)

2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 tbsp granulated sugar

1 tsp salt

4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath:

8 cups water

1/2 cup baking soda

For Topping:

4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Coarse salt or pretzel salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Stir in salt, melted butter, and flour (one cup at a time), mixing until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.

Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope, then shape each rope into a pretzel.

Step 4: Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil and add ½ cup baking soda.

Carefully dip each pretzel into the water for 15 seconds. Remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Pretzels

Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse salt.

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until they are deep golden brown.

Step 6: Brush with Butter & Serve

Once baked, remove the pretzels from the oven and immediately brush with melted butter.

Serve warm with cheese sauce, mustard, or cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat!

Notes

Extra Chewy Pretzels: Let the pretzels cool for 10 minutes before eating to enhance their chewiness.

Sweet Version: Skip the salt and instead sprinkle the pretzels with cinnamon sugar after brushing with butter for a sweet treat.

Make Ahead: Freeze unbaked pretzels after the baking soda bath. When needed, bake fresh directly from the freezer!

Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time:: 1 hour
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Snack, Bread
Method: Baked
Cuisine: German, American