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Homemade Soft Pretzel

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Warm, chewy homemade soft pretzels with a golden-brown crust. Perfect for snacking, entertaining, or enjoying fresh from the oven. Easy to make and customizable with sweet or savory variations.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2/3 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
  • Coarse sea salt (for topping)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in salt and gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope and shape into a pretzel.
  7. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Dip each pretzel into the boiling solution for 30 seconds and place on prepared baking sheets.
  8. Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • For cinnamon sugar pretzels, skip salt and brush with melted butter after baking, then sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar.
  • Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in the microwave wrapped in a damp towel, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
  • To make vegan, skip egg wash and use plant-based butter if desired.
  • Can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast—no need to proof, just mix with flour.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumfamilyrecipes.com/homemade-soft-pretzel/