Homemade Pretzels: Simple Recipe for Soft, Chewy, and Delicious Snacks

Homemade pretzels are a delightful snack that combines a soft, chewy texture with a golden, crispy crust. This simple recipe guides you through creating perfect pretzels at home, from mixing and kneading the dough to shaping and baking them to perfection. With just a few basic ingredients like flour, yeast, and baking soda, you can enjoy fresh, warm pretzels in under two hours. Whether served plain or with your favorite dipping sauce, these pretzels make an ideal treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare, they bring a homemade touch to your kitchen.

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Rest Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 large pretzels

---

Ingredients: Homemade Pretzels

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 10 cups water (for boiling)
• ⅔ cup baking soda (for boiling)
• 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

---

Instructions: Homemade Pretzels

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter and salt. Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Pretzels:
   Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, approximately 20-24 inches long. Form each rope into a pretzel shape by creating a U, twisting the ends, and folding them back down to the bottom.
5. Boil the Pretzels:
   Bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Gently place each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Egg Wash and Salt:
   Brush each pretzel with the egg wash and generously sprinkle coarse sea salt over the tops.
7. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels turn a deep golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

---

---

These soft, golden-brown pretzels are the perfect combination of chewy and crisp, with a subtle saltiness that pairs wonderfully with any dipping sauce or on their own. They make an excellent snack or appetizer for any occasion, bringing warmth and comfort to your kitchen. The delicate aroma of fresh pretzels straight from the oven is irresistible, offering a little touch of homemade luxury.

---

Tips for Making Perfect Homemade Pretzels:

1. Use Warm Water: Ensure the water is between 100°F and 110°F to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
2. Knead the Dough Well: Kneading for 5-7 minutes will help develop the gluten, making the pretzels chewy and soft.
3. Boil in Baking Soda: Boiling the pretzels in baking soda water before baking gives them that signature chewy texture and deep brown color.
4. Shape with Ease: Roll the dough into longer ropes to make twisting easier and achieve the perfect pretzel shape.
5. Egg Wash for Shine: Brushing with egg wash before baking gives the pretzels a glossy finish.

Recipe videos

Pretzels videos:

Love is endless