Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you’ve been craving something warm, chewy, and irresistibly delicious, look no further than this Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe. These pretzels are the perfect blend of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, boasting that nostalgic bakery taste you love, made fresh right in your own kitchen. The careful combination of simple ingredients creates a dough that puffs up beautifully after a quick bath in a baking soda solution, delivering that classic pretzel chew and deep golden color. Paired with a luscious salsa verde cheese sauce, this recipe will quickly become your go-to treat for snack time or as the star of any casual gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these soft pretzels lies in a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role to ensure the perfect texture and flavor. From the yeast that helps the dough rise to the baking soda bath that creates the signature crust, these components come together effortlessly for a wonderful homemade experience.

• 1 ½ cups warm water: Activates the yeast and forms the base of the dough.
• 1 Tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor.
• 1 package active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): Essential for fluffing up the dough.
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and chewiness.
• ¼ cup melted butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
• 10 cups water: Used for the baking soda bath that forms the crust.
• 2/3 cups baking soda: Key ingredient for the pretzel’s glossy, chewy surface.
• 1 large egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water: Brushed on for beautiful golden color.
• Pretzel Salt: The classic finishing touch that delivers the iconic salty crunch.
• Non-stick cooking spray: Prevents sticking during proofing.
• 2 tablespoons of butter: For the salsa verde cheese sauce base.
• 2 tablespoons of flour: Thickens the cheese sauce to creamy perfection.
• 1 cup milk: Adds smoothness to the sauce.
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese: Provides sharp, melty goodness.
• 1 –4 oz packet Velveeta cheese sauce: Ensures a silky, smooth texture.
• 1/3 cup Salsa Verde: Brings a fresh, tangy zing to the cheese dip.
• Salt to Taste: Balances the cheese sauce flavors.

How to Make Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by combining warm water, sugar, and kosher salt in your stand mixer bowl. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture starts to foam—this is the yeast waking up and ready to do its magic. Once bubbly, add the flour and melted butter, using the dough hook and mixing on low. Then, increase to medium speed and knead for about 4 to 5 minutes until your dough is smooth and pulls away from the bowl sides. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 50 to 55 minutes until it doubles in size.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Pans

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two half-sheet pans with parchment paper and lightly brush them with vegetable oil to keep those pretzels from sticking and help with even baking.

Step 3: Make the Baking Soda Bath

In a large 8-quart saucepan, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil. This baking soda bath is the secret behind that soft pretzel’s signature glossy, chewy crust, so it’s important to get this step just right.

Step 4: Shape Your Pretzels

Turn the risen dough onto a lightly oiled surface and divide it evenly into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a long, 24-inch rope. Shape each rope into a classic pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends over, twisting them, and pressing the ends onto the bottom of the U to seal. Place them carefully on your prepared pans.

Step 5: Boil Pretzels for the Perfect Crust

One by one, gently place each pretzel in the boiling baking soda bath for 30 seconds. This step gives the pretzels their wonderful color and texture when baked. Remove the pretzels with a flat spatula, return them to the pans, brush with the egg yolk and water wash, and sprinkle with pretzel salt. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until they turn that gorgeous dark golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce

While your pretzels are baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a smooth paste, then gradually whisk in milk until the mixture thickens into a creamy roux. Add the grated cheddar and Velveeta cheese sauce packet, stirring until smooth. Finally, mix in the salsa verde and let the sauce simmer gently for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This dip complements the pretzels perfectly with a kick of bold flavor.

How to Serve Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

Garnishes

Brushing your pretzels with melted butter right after baking amps up their flavor and gives a beautiful sheen. A generous sprinkle of coarse pretzel salt adds the essential salty contrast to the soft, chewy dough. For an extra touch, consider tossing the pretzels with everything bagel seasoning or a sprinkle of shredded parmesan for a slight twist.

Side Dishes

This pretzel recipe shines as a fantastic snack on its own but pairs wonderfully with hearty beer cheese dip, spicy mustard, or the special salsa verde cheese sauce you made alongside. Serve with fresh-cut veggies or a crisp salad to balance the richness and add a fresh bite to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your pretzel experience memorable by arranging the soft pretzels in a basket lined with a colorful napkin for a warm, inviting feel. You can also create slider sandwiches by slicing pretzels in half and filling them with deli meats, cheese, and pickles. For parties, consider serving bite-sized pretzel nuggets alongside a trio of dips including the salsa verde cheese sauce, honey mustard, and a garlic aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover pretzels, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their softness. To keep them fresh longer, wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing in the container.

Freezing

Soft pretzels freeze beautifully. Wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to one month. This way, you can enjoy your Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe any time without compromising flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the pretzels and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Optionally, brush with melted butter after reheating for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste and softness.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour can be used in place of all-purpose flour. It has a higher protein content which can result in an even chewier and more elastic pretzel, which some prefer.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No worries! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It just takes a bit more elbow grease, but the result is just as wonderful. Knead on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

How important is the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is crucial for that distinctive pretzel crust and flavor. Skipping it will mean softer bread instead of the classic chewy crust that defines a pretzel.

Can I make mini pretzels with this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and shape into smaller ropes. Adjust boiling and baking times by a few minutes since smaller pretzels cook quicker.

What’s the best way to prevent pretzels from sticking during boiling?

Use a large flat spatula to gently lift the pretzels out of the boiling bath and avoid overcrowding the pot during boiling, which can make them stick together.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe is truly one of those joyful kitchen projects that yields delicious results every time. Once you taste that perfect balance of salty crust and tender, soft dough dipped in rich salsa verde cheese sauce, you’ll want to make these pretzels again and again. Whether for a cozy night in or your next gathering, these pretzels will bring smiles and satisfy cravings in the best way possible. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your home!

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