Pretzel Recipe

If you’re a fan of soft, chewy pretzels, then you’re in for a treat! Making pretzels at home is easier than you might think, and the results are simply delicious. Whether you’re looking for a fun baking project or a tasty snack, this homemade pretzel recipe will not disappoint. Let’s dive in and create some delicious homemade pretzels.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
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 the Topping:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Add the melted butter, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Shape the Pretzels:

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease them.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20-24 inches long. Form each rope into a U-shape, then cross the ends over each other and press them onto the bottom of the U to form a pretzel shape.

3. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
Carefully place the pretzels, one at a time, into the boiling water. Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.

4. Add the Topping:

Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown color.
Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top of each pretzel.

5. Bake the Pretzels:

Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Pretzels:

Proofing the Yeast: Make sure your water is warm, but not too hot, to properly activate the yeast.
Kneading the Dough: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic to ensure the pretzels are soft and chewy.
Baking Soda Bath: This step is crucial for achieving the classic pretzel texture and flavor. Don’t skip it!
Shaping: Don’t worry if your pretzels aren’t perfect. They’ll still taste delicious!

Enjoying Your Pretzels:

Homemade pretzels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces such as mustard, cheese sauce, or a sweet cinnamon-sugar glaze. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or as a side to your favorite soup.

Making pretzels at home is a fun and rewarding experience that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!

Happy baking! Let me know how your pretzels turn out or if you have any questions.