Description

These homemade soft pretzels are golden brown, chewy on the outside, and perfectly soft on the inside. They’re surprisingly easy to make and taste just like the ones from the mall—only better! Great as a snack, party appetizer, or game-day treat.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse sea salt (for topping)
Optional: melted butter for brushing

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Stir in salt and flour gradually. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
Punch down the dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 20-24 inch rope and shape into a pretzel.
Carefully dip each pretzel into the boiling baking soda water for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spatula to remove and place on the baking sheet.
Brush pretzels with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Optional: brush with melted butter right after baking for extra flavor.

Notes

For sweeter pretzels, skip the salt and brush with cinnamon sugar after baking.
You can freeze the shaped pretzels before baking for quick snacks later—just boil and bake straight from frozen.