I think we can all agree that soft pretzels are a unique and special treat. Some of my fondest memories are sitting down with a Czech beer and a perfectly baked pretzel. I have finally found the perfect recipe for making pretzels at home. There is no denying that these are insanely AMAZING. There is something nostalgic about these twists of doughy bread, topped with something sweet or savory, that makes us feel like a kid again. This recipe is simple, but will leave you feeling like an accomplished baker who has mastered the art of pretzel making.
Enjoy!
Yields: 12 medium sized pretzels
Total Time: 2 ½ hours
What You'll Need
Topping for Pretzels:
Preparing Your Pretzels
1. Prepare your baking tray(s) by lining with parchment paper. Add some cooking spray or oil to the parchment paper to make extra sure your pretzels wont stick.
2. Mix all of your dough ingredients together by hand, with a mixer, or using a bread machine. Your dough should be fairly smooth, slightly sticky and cohesive. If it seems dry, you can add 1-2 tablespoons more water.
3. Place your ball of dough into a bowl and cover. Let it rest and do its magic for 45 minutes. It should raise slightly.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and turn out the dough onto a slightly greased surface to work on. Gently fold the dough over itself a few times and let it deflate. Now you will separate your dough into 12 equal parts, each weighing approximately 2¼ to 1½ ounces (a scale comes in handy for this, but if you don't have one, do your best to make 12 equal parts).
5. Now the fun part. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope, about 15 inches in length. Shape each rope into a pretzel (or whatever shape you choose) and place onto your baking tray.
6. Brush the pretzels with the sugar + water mixture, and sprinkle with desired toppings.
7. Bake your pretzels for 25-30 minutes, until lightly golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven, and brush with melted butter, if desired. Let the pretzels cool, and enjoy!
*These are best warm from the oven, or the day of baking, but can also be toasted a day or two later for an even different pretzel experience. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container and consume within 5 days.
Making pretzels is so much fun, and highly addictive. Once you try these, they will surely become a household staple! Experiment with different topping variations, and have fun creating.
Cheers & Eat Well,
Kristina