Name: Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 1 h 31 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 (¼ ounce) package active dry yeast (or 2¼ teaspoons); 1½ cups warm water (plus more as needed); 4½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled, 563g); 2 teaspoons fine sea salt; ¼ cup neutral oil or unsalted butter (melted, plus more for brushing); Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling); 6 cups water; 2 tablespoons baking soda

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 15 reviews

If you have ever craved that perfectly soft, chewy, and slightly salty snack that you find at fairs and bakeries, you are going to fall head over heels for this Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe. Nothing beats the satisfaction of pulling these golden-brown pretzels fresh from your own oven, with that distinctive crust and tender interior that melts in your mouth. This recipe brings the magic of traditional pretzel-making into your kitchen, combining simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a timeless treat that feels like a warm hug with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Two soft golden brown pretzels sit on a baking tray lined with a brown silicone baking mat. The pretzels have a twisted shape with a smooth, shiny surface and are sprinkled with coarse white salt. A wooden brush with light brown bristles is gently touching the top of one pretzel, adding a glossy layer. The background includes a small part of a beige and black speckled countertop. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe is a joy because the ingredient list is refreshingly simple yet absolutely essential. Each element plays a crucial role in developing the iconic flavor, texture, and color of these pretzels.

Granulated sugar: A little sweetness to feed the yeast and bring out subtle flavors in the dough.
Active dry yeast: The life of the dough, creating the airy, soft texture that makes pretzels irresistible.
Warm water: Perfectly tempered to activate the yeast and hydrate the flour.
All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that forms the dough’s structure and gives chewy texture.
Fine sea salt: Balances the flavors and strengthens the dough’s gluten network.
Neutral oil or unsalted butter: Adds softness and richness to the dough for that tender crumb.
Coarse sea salt: For sprinkling on top, providing that signature salty crunch.
Baking soda: Essential for the baking soda bath that forms the pretzel’s iconic brown crust.
Water for boiling: Combines with baking soda to create the alkaline bath that sets the crust.

How to Make Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

The first step is all about waking up your yeast. Mix the sugar and yeast with warm water and let it rest for about five minutes until it foams up. This “proofing” confirms that your yeast is active and ready to work its magic, which is the foundation for that perfect, airy dough.

Step 2: Mix the dough

In your stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, salt, melted butter or oil, and your yeast mixture. Mixing on a medium-low speed for roughly five to six minutes will develop the gluten strands, giving your pretzels their signature chewiness. Don’t worry if the dough is sticky; you can always add a tablespoon of water or flour as needed to get the perfect consistency.

Step 3: Let the dough rise

Once your dough feels elastic and smooth, shape it into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and leave it somewhere warm for 60 to 90 minutes until it nearly doubles in size. This rise is key for light, fluffy pretzels with that soft interior bite we all love.

Step 4: Shape your pretzels

After the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into eight equal parts. Roll each piece into a long rope about 18 to 20 inches, then skillfully twist it into that classic pretzel shape. This part is as fun as it sounds and really gives your homemade soft pretzels their charming personality.

Step 5: Prepare the pretzel bath

Next, bring a large pot of water and baking soda to a boil. Boiling the shaped dough briefly in this alkaline bath is what creates the pretzel’s rich golden crust and gives it that unmistakable flavor. Drop each pretzel in for 30 seconds, then carefully remove it with a slotted spoon.

Step 6: Add salt and vent

While the pretzels are still wet after the bath, sprinkle them generously with coarse sea salt so you get that delightful salty crunch in every bite. Use a sharp knife to make a small slit on the bottom of each pretzel to allow steam to escape as they bake, ensuring an even crust.

Step 7: Bake to perfection

Bake your pretzels in a hot oven at 450°F for 14 to 16 minutes. During this time, watch as they turn perfectly golden brown with a slightly crisp exterior. The aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes until you can dive in.

How to Serve Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe

A single twisted pretzel with a golden brown color and a shiny surface sits in the middle of a white plate with a soft turquoise glaze. The pretzel is sprinkled lightly with coarse salt, giving a slight texture contrast on top. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a gentle, natural pattern. The image is bright and clear, showing the soft dough and slight crispiness of the pretzel’s outer crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

There’s nothing wrong with a classic sprinkle of coarse sea salt, but why not get playful? Try brushing your pretzels with melted butter and adding everything bagel seasoning for an extra flavor punch or a dusting of cinnamon sugar if you want a sweet twist to your savory treat.

Side Dishes

Homemade soft pretzels are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with creamy cheese dips, spicy mustard, or even a hearty beer cheese soup can elevate your snack game to another level. These pairings complement the pretzels’ salty-chewy profile beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your pretzels woven through a rustic basket lined with colourful napkins or stack them on a wooden board alongside a smorgasbord of dips and toppings. For parties, you can skewer smaller pretzel bites and serve them as finger food—perfect for sharing that delicious Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe experience with friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If any pretzels survive the first round of indulgence, keep them fresh by storing in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within a day or two, as they gradually lose that freshly baked softness.

Freezing

Want to make these pretzels in advance? Freeze them after shaping but before boiling. Wrap each pretzel tightly and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, boil and bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

To revive the magic after storage or freezing, warm pretzels in the oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This reheating method helps regain that lovely crust and soft inside, making every bite feel freshly baked and just as delicious.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind it will result in a denser pretzel with a nuttier flavor. You might want to use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balanced texture and taste.

What if my yeast doesn’t foam during activation?

If your yeast fails to foam, it’s usually a sign that either the water was too hot or the yeast is expired. Discard the mixture and start fresh with new yeast and properly warmed water—about 100 to 110°F works best.

Why is the baking soda bath necessary?

The alkaline bath is what gives pretzels their signature chewy crust and deep golden color. This step sets them apart from regular bread and is crucial to achieving that authentic pretzel texture and appearance.

Can I make smaller pretzels or pretzel bites?

Absolutely! Just cut the dough into smaller pieces and shape accordingly. Remember to adjust boiling time—they may only need about 15 to 20 seconds in the baking soda bath to avoid over-softening.

Is it possible to make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Definitely. You can mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It requires a bit more elbow grease, but it’s very doable and can be quite therapeutic in the process!

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe isn’t just a recipe, it’s an invitation to bring warmth, nostalgia, and joy to your kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a cozy movie night or a festive gathering, these pretzels offer a delicious way to show love through food. So roll up your sleeves, start your dough, and treat yourself to the wonderful feeling of enjoying truly homemade soft pretzels fresh from your oven.