Soft pretzels are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. Their golden-brown crust and soft, chewy interior make them irresistible. Perfect for dipping in mustard or cheese sauce, these homemade pretzels are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples. However, you might need to purchase active dry yeast if you don't already have it. Additionally, baking soda is essential for boiling the pretzels to achieve their characteristic texture. Make sure to get coarse salt for topping, as it adds the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients For Soft Pretzels Recipe
Warm water: Used to activate the yeast and form the dough.
Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives the pretzels their fluffy texture.
Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
All-purpose flour: The main structure of the pretzel dough.
Salt: Enhances the flavor of the pretzels.
Baking soda: Used in the boiling water to give the pretzels their chewy texture.
Beaten egg: Brushed on top for a shiny, golden finish.
Coarse salt: Sprinkled on top for a burst of salty flavor.
Technique Tip for Perfect Pretzels
When shaping your pretzels, make sure to roll the dough into even ropes to ensure uniform baking. If the dough is too sticky, lightly dust your hands and the surface with flour. This will make it easier to handle and shape. Additionally, when boiling the pretzels, be gentle to avoid deflating them. Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer them from the boiling water to the baking sheet.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
warm water - Substitute with warm milk: Warm milk can help activate the yeast and add a richer flavor to the dough.
active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in the same quantity and does not need to be dissolved in water first.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness and also help with yeast activation.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with bread flour: Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can result in a chewier texture, ideal for pretzels.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral profile.
baking soda - Substitute with baked baking soda: Baked baking soda (sodium carbonate) can be used for a more traditional pretzel flavor and texture.
beaten egg - Substitute with milk wash: A milk wash can provide a similar golden-brown finish to the pretzels.
coarse salt - Substitute with pretzel salt: Pretzel salt is specifically designed for pretzels and provides a larger, crunchier texture.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Pretzels
How to Store or Freeze Your Pretzels
Allow the soft pretzels to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
For short-term storage, place the pretzels in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To keep them fresh for a longer period, wrap each pretzel individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place them in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the pretzels at room temperature for about 1 hour. For a quicker option, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds.
To restore their original texture, reheat the pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crisp on the outside.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the pretzels in a damp paper towel before microwaving. This will help retain moisture and keep them soft.
For an extra touch, brush the reheated pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle with additional coarse salt before serving. This will enhance their flavor and give them a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Avoid storing pretzels in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to dry out and become stale more quickly.
How to Reheat Leftover Pretzels
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each soft pretzel in aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Place the wrapped pretzels on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are warm and soft. This method helps maintain the pretzels' original texture.
Microwave Method: Place a damp paper towel over each soft pretzel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the pretzel and continue to heat in 10-second intervals if necessary. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the pretzels tough.
Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soft pretzels directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to ensure they don’t overcook. This method is quick and helps maintain a slightly crispy exterior.
Steaming Method: If you have a steamer, this is a great way to reheat soft pretzels without drying them out. Steam the pretzels for about 5 minutes, or until they are warm and soft. This method is particularly good for retaining moisture.
Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet. Place the soft pretzels in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method adds a bit of extra flavor and a slight crispiness to the pretzels.
Essential Tools for Making Pretzels
Large mixing bowl: To combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar, and later to mix in the flour and salt.
Measuring cups: To measure the warm water and flour accurately.
Measuring spoons: To measure the sugar, salt, and baking soda.
Wooden spoon: To mix the ingredients until a dough forms.
Floured surface: To knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Knife: To divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
Baking sheet: To place the pretzels on for baking.
Parchment paper: To line the baking sheet and prevent the pretzels from sticking.
Large pot: To boil the water and baking soda mixture.
Slotted spoon: To remove the pretzels from the boiling water.
Pastry brush: To brush the beaten egg onto the pretzels.
Oven: To bake the pretzels until they are golden brown.
Cooling rack: To cool the pretzels after baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Pretzel Making
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure out flour, sugar, and salt ahead of time to streamline the process.
Use a stand mixer: Save time by using a stand mixer with a dough hook to mix and knead the dough.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while shaping the pretzels to save time.
Boil water in a kettle: Use an electric kettle to boil water faster for the baking soda bath.
Shape pretzels uniformly: Roll and shape all pretzels at once to ensure even baking.

Soft Pretzels Recipe
Ingredients
Pretzel Dough
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg beaten
- to taste coarse salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and shape into a pretzel.
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
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