Name: Soft Pretzels Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups warm water; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided; 2 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast; 5 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon salt; ¼ cup baking soda; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (remaining from total); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon water; Coarse salt, for sprinkling

If you have ever had a craving for something warm, soft, and irresistibly chewy that feels like a big, cozy hug, then this Soft Pretzels Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. These homemade pretzels boast that perfect golden crust with a tender inside that you just can’t resist, and making them from scratch is a delightful kitchen adventure. Whether you’re planning a movie night, a party snack, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe hits all the right notes with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that will have you twisting, boiling, and baking your way to pretzel perfection in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a smooth, round dough ball with a slightly shiny surface. It sits on a white marbled textured surface dusted lightly with flour. The dough is pale beige in color and looks soft and elastic. There is no other object in the frame, just the dough centered on the surface. The lighting is natural, highlighting the dough's texture and slight creases on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

It’s amazing how a handful of everyday pantry staples come together to create those classic soft pretzels you know and love. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the flavor, texture, and appearance of the final pretzels, making this Soft Pretzels Recipe both accessible and delicious.

Warm water: Activates the yeast and brings the dough together with the perfect temperature for rising.
Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and lends a subtle sweetness that balances the salty crust.
Active dry yeast: Essential for the dough to rise and develop that airy, chewy texture.
All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and body.
Salt: Adds flavor to the dough and enhances all the other ingredients.
Baking soda: Used in the boiling water bath to create the iconic pretzel crust with its signature bite and color.
Large egg: Adds a beautiful golden sheen when brushed on the pretzels before baking.
Coarse salt: Sprinkled on top for that satisfying crunch and salty punch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate and Combine Your Yeast

Start by pouring warm water and one tablespoon of sugar into your mixer bowl, then sprinkle in the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it bubbles and foams—a sign that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. This step is the secret to that light and chewy texture that defines great soft pretzels.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add one cup of flour to the yeast mixture and blend until everything is combined. Next, stir in salt and the remaining flour, mixing on medium-low speed until the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it still feels sticky, gradually add more flour half a cup at a time until you achieve a soft but not sticky dough. Then knead for a few minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic—gluten development is what gives pretzels their satisfying bite.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough into a bowl lightly coated with cooking spray and cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. Leave it in a cozy, warm spot for about an hour, allowing it to double in size. This rising period adds volume and lightness, setting the foundation for your perfect pretzel.

Step 4: Shape Your Pretzels

Preheat your oven to 450°F and prep two parchment-lined baking sheets. Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces, about 2 ½ ounces each. Roll each piece into a long, thin strip about 18 inches, then expertly twist and fold to form that classic pretzel shape. Lay them out on the pans and let them rest for 15 minutes—a quick rise that will help the pretzels puff up during baking.

Step 5: The Baking Soda Bath

This step is crucial for that trademark pretzel crust. Boil a few inches of water with the baking soda and remaining sugar in a wide pan. Carefully poach the pretzels, 3 to 4 at a time, boiling each side for about a minute. This alkaline bath transforms the dough’s surface, giving you that subtle crunch and the rich brown color you crave.

Step 6: Final Touches and Baking

Beat the egg with a teaspoon of water and brush it generously over each pretzel. Sprinkle with coarse salt for the perfect salty crunch, then pop them in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until they turn golden brown. Once baked, let them cool slightly on a wire rack, then enjoy warm or at room temperature for a truly comforting treat.

How to Serve Soft Pretzels Recipe

The image shows four light beige dough pieces shaped into knots floating in simmering water inside a black pot. The dough has a smooth texture with some small bubbles on the surface. Steam rises gently from the water, creating a soft mist above the pot. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, adding contrast to the dark cooking vessel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While coarse salt is the classic topping, don’t hesitate to get creative with garnishes. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar makes a deliciously sweet option, or try sesame or poppy seeds for added texture and flavor. For an extra special touch, brush with melted butter before serving to enhance richness.

Side Dishes

Soft pretzels shine when paired with an assortment of dips. Classic yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard add tang and heat, while cheese sauces or even a creamy ranch dip bring indulgent creaminess. For something unexpected, try serving them alongside a flavorful beer cheese or a smoky barbecue sauce. The dipping possibilities are endless and make every bite a little adventure.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress friends and family by serving your Soft Pretzels Recipe on a rustic wooden board with a variety of dips in colorful ramekins. You can also cut pretzels into bite-size pieces for sharing as part of a party platter, paired with sliced meats, cheeses, and pickles for a delightful snack board. Wrapping individual pretzels in parchment paper tied with a pretty ribbon makes a charming edible gift too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you can’t finish all 16 pretzels in one sitting, no worries. Keep them on the counter, uncovered, for a day or two and they’ll maintain a decent texture, though nothing beats fresh-baked. The crust may soften a bit, but a quick warming can bring back some of that original charm.

Freezing

Soft pretzels freeze really well if you want to save some for later. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature or gently warm from frozen; they’ll come back to life and taste almost freshly baked.

Reheating

To revive that freshly-baked softness, warm pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving for too long, which can make them tough; a quick oven reheat keeps them chewy on the inside and crisp on the outside.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Bread flour has more protein, which can give your pretzels an even chewier texture, making your Soft Pretzels Recipe taste more authentic.

Why do I boil the pretzels in baking soda water?

The baking soda bath changes the dough’s pH and helps develop the pretzels’ distinctive dark crust and chewy texture—making all the difference in flavor and appearance.

Can I make pretzels without an electric mixer?

Yes! You can mix and knead the dough by hand; it just takes a bit more elbow grease but is totally doable and rewarding.

How long do soft pretzels stay fresh?

They’re best eaten the day they’re made, but can stay reasonably fresh for up to 2 days when stored uncovered at room temperature.

What dips work best with soft pretzels?

Classic mustards, cheese sauces, and even sweet dips like honey mustard or cream cheese make fantastic companions, enhancing the pretzels’ flavor.

Final Thoughts

Making this Soft Pretzels Recipe at home is not only incredibly satisfying but also an opportunity to delight yourself and your loved ones with fresh, warm, and flavorful treats that come straight from your own kitchen. Don’t be intimidated by the process—once you nail the steps, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake up some joy!