Pretzels are iconic baked bread treats, traditionally shaped into twisted knots. They are made from simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and salt, offering a crisp outer crust and a soft, chewy interior. Often sprinkled with coarse salt, pretzels can be enjoyed as a savory snack or a sweet treat when paired with cinnamon sugar or chocolate.
Pretzel
8
servings30
minutes12
minutesOriginating from Europe, particularly Germany, pretzels are deeply rooted in history and are loved worldwide for their unique shape and taste.
Ingredients
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 cups water
⅔ cup baking soda
1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Coarse salt
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope (about 20 inches long) and twist into a pretzel shape.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Gently lower each pretzel into the water for 30 seconds, then place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until deep golden brown.
- Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with mustard, cheese dip, or your favorite topping.
