Description
Bavarian Soft Pretzels are a delightful twist on the classic snack, bringing the authentic taste of Germany right into your home. Warm, chewy, and beautifully golden-brown, these pretzels are perfect for any occasion—from game days to cozy family nights. This easy-to-follow recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and minimal baking experience, making it accessible for everyone. Serve them with your favorite mustards or cheese dips, and watch as they become the centerpiece of any gathering. The fun of shaping the pretzels adds an element of joy to the cooking process, making it a perfect activity for both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F)
- 1 Tb brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 quarts water (plus 2 cups)
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 egg yolk
- Pretzel salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, brown sugar, and salt. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit until bubbly (about 10 minutes).
- Attach the bowl to a stand mixer and mix in flour and melted butter until smooth.
- Shape dough into a ball, coat with oil in a clean bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil while preheating your oven to 450°F.
- Divide dough into eight portions. Roll each into a long snake and shape into pretzels.
- Boil each pretzel in the baking soda solution for about 30 seconds before transferring to a baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg yolk mixed with water, sprinkle with salt, and bake for 12–14 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel (90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg