Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 tbsp sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup baking soda
6 cups water
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt (for topping)
Directions:
Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is activated.
Prepare the Dough:
Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape the Pretzels:
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 20 inches long) and shape into a pretzel by forming a U, twisting the ends, and folding them down to the bottom of the U.
Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Gently drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, one at a time. Remove the pretzels with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Add Egg Wash & Salt:
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Enjoy warm, either plain or with your favorite dipping sauce like mustard or cheese sauce.
Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Kcal: 210 per pretzel | Servings: 8