Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! I do this all the time for last-minute pretzel cravings. After the first rise, shape your dough into pretzels, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, just boil and bake straight from frozen (add 1-2 minutes to the baking time). Easy as that!

What can I use instead of baking soda?

The baking soda bath is key for that classic pretzel crust, but in a pinch, you can use food-grade lye (wear gloves!). Or skip it entirely - your pretzels won’t have quite the same color or chew, but they’ll still taste delicious brushed with butter.

Why are my pretzels tough?

Oh no! Usually this means you boiled them too long (stick to 30 seconds!) or over-kneaded the dough. Next time, stop kneading as soon as the dough springs back when poked. And set that timer for the boiling step - it makes all the difference!

Can I make them gluten-free?

I’ve had success with 1:1 gluten-free flour blends, though the texture will be a bit different. Add 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum per cup of flour if your blend doesn’t include it. The pretzels will be more delicate, but still totally snackable!

Fluffy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

Description

Make your own delicious homemade soft pretzels with this easy recipe.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 package active dry yeast
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 cups water
2/3 cup baking soda
1 large egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water
coarse salt, for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Combine warm water, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5 minutes.
Add flour and melted butter. Mix until dough forms.
Knead dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Bring water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape into a pretzel.
Boil each pretzel in the baking soda solution for 30 seconds. Transfer to a baking sheet.
Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

Use a timer to ensure pretzels are boiled for the correct amount of time.
Store pretzels in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Experiment with different toppings like cinnamon sugar or cheese.

Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Category: Baking
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American