Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Making soft pretzels from scratch is easier than you think! These pretzels are fresher and more flavorful than store-bought ones, and the simple ingredients come together to create a warm, satisfying snack. The dough is soft and pliable, and with a baking soda bath before baking, they develop that classic chewy crust. Plus, you can top them with a variety of seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 and 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 and 1/2 cups warm water
4 and 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tsp salt
6 cups water (for boiling)
2 tbsp baking soda
1 egg
Coarse salt (for topping)
Everything but the bagel seasoning (optional)

Directions

Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a stand mixer bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Add flour, olive oil, and salt, and knead the dough for 5 minutes until it forms a ball.
Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Punch down the dough, divide it into 12 equal pieces, and roll each piece into a rope, shaping it into a pretzel.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Bring a pot of water and baking soda to a boil.
Dip each pretzel in the boiling water for 15-30 seconds, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt and everything but the bagel seasoning.
Bake for 10-11 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool on a wire rack and serve with your favorite dip.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 pretzels
Preparation time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Garlic Parmesan Pretzels: Top with garlic butter and Parmesan cheese before baking.
Sweet Pretzels: Add cinnamon sugar after baking for a sweet twist.
Cheesy Pretzels: Sprinkle with shredded cheese or jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to refresh the texture.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly denser.

Do I need a stand mixer to make pretzels?

No, you can knead the dough by hand if you don’t have a stand mixer.

Can I make these pretzels ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough ahead of time, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze these pretzels?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pretzels. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven.

What can I serve with these pretzels?

Serve them with cheese dip, mustard, or even a creamy ranch dip.

Conclusion

These homemade soft pretzels are a delicious and fun treat to make at home. With their irresistible golden crust and soft interior, they are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a snack. Customize them with your favorite toppings or serve them with a tasty dip for a special touch.