This homemade soft pretzel recipe has been one of our favorite snacks for years! The pretzels are chewy, flavorful, and easy to make with 8 ingredients.
Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
This easy soft pretzel recipe has been a favorite in our house for years now. These homemade soft pretzels have a delicious chewy texture and a perfect pretzel flavor thanks to a quick baking soda boil. They’re a fun cooking project anytime, but we especially love to make them for parties and game days—they’re always a crowd-pleasing snack!
Whether you take your pretzels with melted butter, honey mustard, vegan cheese sauce, or plain, we think you’ll love these. Keep reading for our best tips and step-by-step instructions!
Ingredients in this Pretzel Recipe
This soft pretzel recipe starts with 8 simple ingredients:
| Ingredient | Details |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Weight: 563 grams; measure accurately. |
| Granulated sugar | Adds sweetness; maple syrup can be substituted. |
| Active dry yeast | Helps the dough rise; proof before use. |
| Melted butter or neutral oil | Adds richness and flavor to the dough. |
| Water | Needed for the dough and for boiling. |
| Baking soda | Gives pretzels their golden color. |
| Sea salt | Season the dough and sprinkle over pretzels before baking. |
How to Make Soft Pretzels
You can find the complete soft pretzel recipe with measurements at the bottom of this post. But first, here’s an overview of how it goes (step-by-step shaping photos included!):
-
Make the pretzel dough:
Proof the yeast with water and sugar, then combine with flour, salt, and oil. Mix for 5 to 6 minutes until stretchy. - Let the dough rise: Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 60 to 90 minutes until doubled.
- Shape the pretzels: Divide into 8 equal pieces, roll into ropes, and form into pretzel shapes.
- Boil the pretzels: Boil in a baking soda bath for 30 seconds each.
- Bake: Bake at 450°F until golden brown, approximately 14 to 16 minutes.
How to Shape Pretzels
Shaping pretzels can seem tricky at first, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it!
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll one piece into an 18-20 inch rope.
- Form the rope into a U-shape.
- Cross the ends and twist them together.
- Fold the twist down into the center of the U to create the pretzel shape.
Boiling and Baking
To finish the pretzels, you’ll boil them in a baking soda bath:
- Bring 6 cups water and 2 tablespoons baking soda to a boil.
- Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds.
- Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, sprinkle with coarse salt, and cut a 4-inch slit at the bottom.
- Bake at 450°F for 14 to 16 minutes until golden brown.
How to Store Soft Pretzels
We love these homemade soft pretzels warm from the oven, but they’re delicious leftover too. Allow them to cool, then:
- Seal in an airtight container or bag.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs about Homemade Soft Pretzels
1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, though it may change the texture slightly.
2. What can I serve with soft pretzels?
They are great with melted butter, mustard, or cheese sauce!
3. How long do soft pretzels last?
They last about 2 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Homemade soft pretzels are a fun and rewarding baking project. With just 8 ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create deliciously chewy pretzels perfect for snacking or entertaining. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll enjoy the delightful taste and aroma that fill your kitchen!