Teresa's Recipes
Homemade Soft Pretzels
Indulge in the delightful experience of warm, freshly baked soft pretzels that are perfectly chewy and topped with coarse salt. This classic treat, often enjoyed at fairs and sporting events, has a rich history dating back to ancient times in Europe. Soft pretzels are not just a snack; they're a warm hug of comfort, perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring solo with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether paired with mustard, cheese sauce, or a sweet chocolate dip, these pretzels are sure to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (110°F - 115°F) Warm water
- 1 tablespoon Sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) Active dry yeast
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Melted butter
- 1/2 cup Baking soda
- for sprinkling Coarse salt
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 8
- Dish Type: Snack
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 4g
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring about 10 cups of water to a boil and carefully add the baking soda (it will foam up).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 24 inches) and twist it into a pretzel shape.
- Boil each pretzel in the baking soda water for about 30 seconds, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the pretzels generously with coarse salt.
- Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips
- For a cheesy twist, serve with a warm cheese sauce made by melting cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and a splash of milk together over low heat.
- If you prefer a sweeter option, try brushing the pretzels with melted butter and sprinkling them with cinnamon sugar right after baking.