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Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels

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Soft, chewy, and golden homemade pretzels that bring the nostalgic flavors of the mall to your own kitchen, perfect for dipping or enjoying solo.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups warm water
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Coarse sea salt, for topping
  • 1 egg yolk (beaten with water)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly oil it.
  2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in melted butter, then gradually add flour and salt until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 45 minutes until doubled.
  4. Punch down the dough and divide into 8 pieces. Roll each into a rope and shape into pretzels.
  5. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Drop each pretzel into the bath for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.
  6. Arrange boiled pretzels on the baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until deep golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
  8. Serve warm with your favorite dips like cheese sauce or mustard.

Notes

  • For a sweeter version, skip the salt topping and brush with melted butter, then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking.
  • Use bread flour for a chewier texture if preferred.
  • Pretzels can be shaped and stored in the fridge overnight before baking.