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Classic Soft Pretzels

Close-up of golden-brown, freshly baked soft pretzels topped with coarse salt.
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Learn to make authentic, chewy soft pretzels at home, perfect for Oktoberfest or any gathering. This recipe guides you through kneading, shaping, and boiling for that signature crust.

Ingredients

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  • 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons baking soda
  • Coarse salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
  7. Roll each piece into a rope about 20-24 inches long.
  8. Shape each rope into a pretzel. Bring the ends to the center and cross them, then bring them down to the bottom curve.
  9. In a shallow dish, dissolve the baking soda in 4 cups of boiling water.
  10. Carefully dip each pretzel into the baking soda solution for 30 seconds, flipping once.
  11. Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
  12. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse salt.
  13. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  14. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Serve warm with your favorite mustard or a homemade beer cheese dip.
  • For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of malt syrup to the dough.
  • Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best crust.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://blissbatter.com/soft-pretzels-recipe/