Homemade soft pretzels are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. This Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe combines the perfect chewy texture with a soft, buttery flavor, making them ideal for parties, game days, or simply as a tasty snack at home. Pair these pretzels with an amazing Salsa Verde Cheese Dipping Sauce for a unique twist that will have everyone coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Make: This easy homemade pretzel recipe requires basic ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The buttery taste of these soft pretzels is enhanced by the addition of a rich cheese sauce, offering a gourmet touch.
- Versatile Snack: Serve them warm as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack. They can be enjoyed plain or with various dips.
- Fun to Shape: Twisting the pretzel dough into shape adds a fun element to your cooking experience, great for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like garlic powder, cheese, or sesame seeds to create your own signature pretzel.
Tools and Preparation
To make this recipe easier, gather your tools beforehand. Having everything in place will help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook attachment
- 8-quart saucepan
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
- Large flat spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Mixing and kneading the dough becomes effortless and ensures a consistent texture.
- Dough hook attachment: This tool efficiently kneads the dough without much manual effort, saving you time and energy.
- 8-quart saucepan: A large pot is essential for boiling the pretzels in baking soda water, which gives them their classic flavor.
Ingredients
Homemade soft buttery Pretzels with an amazing Salsa Verde Cheese Dipping Sauce. They’re so easy to make you’ll wonder why you waited so long to make this delicious treat at home!
For the Pretzels
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 package active dry yeast (or 2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cups baking soda
- 1 large egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water
- Pretzel Salt
For the Salsa Verde Cheese Dipping Sauce
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 –4 oz packet Velveeta cheese sauce
- 1/3 cup Salsa Verde
- Salt to Taste
How to Make Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Combine the warm water, sugar, and kosher salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it foams.
- Add the all-purpose flour and melted butter to the mixture. Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until well combined.
- Increase to medium speed and knead until smooth and pulling away from the sides of the bowl (about 4–5 minutes).
- Remove the dough from the bowl and oil it using non-stick cooking spray. Place it back in the bowl with oiled side up. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size (approximately 50–55 minutes).
Step 2: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Line two half-sheet pans with parchment paper and lightly brush them with vegetable oil.
Step 3: Boil Water & Shape Pretzels
- In an 8-quart saucepan, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
- While waiting for boiling water, turn out risen dough onto an oiled surface. Divide into eight equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Form each rope into a U-shape; cross ends over each other, twist them together, then press down onto the base of the U.
Step 4: Boil & Bake Pretzels
- Carefully place each pretzel into boiling water one at a time for about 30 seconds.
- Use a large flat spatula to remove them from water and return them to prepared baking sheets.
- Brush each pretzel top with egg yolk mixed with water and sprinkle generously with pretzel salt.
- Bake until dark golden brown (12–14 minutes). Transfer baked pretzels to a cooling rack for at least five minutes before serving.
Step 5: Make Salsa Verde Cheese Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until forming a paste.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continually until thickened into a roux.
- Stir in grated cheddar cheese and Velveeta sauce until smooth; add Salsa Verde and simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Enjoy your delicious homemade soft pretzels fresh out of the oven alongside warm Salsa Verde Cheese Dipping Sauce!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Serving homemade soft pretzels can elevate any gathering or snack time. Their warm, buttery goodness pairs perfectly with a variety of dips and sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy your pretzels.
With Classic Dips
- Mustard Varieties: Serve with spicy brown mustard or honey mustard for a zesty kick.
- Creamy Cheese Dip: Pair with a rich cheese dip for an indulgent treat.
- Ranch Dressing: For a cool contrast, ranch dressing offers a refreshing flavor.
As Part of a Snack Platter
- Meat and Cheese Tray: Include slices of salami and cheddar for a savory platter.
- Vegetable Sticks: Add carrot and celery sticks with hummus for crunch and freshness.
- Fruit Selection: Fresh fruits like grapes or apple slices can add sweetness.
With Beverages
- Craft Beer Pairing: Enjoy with a light lager or pale ale for a delightful combination.
- Soda Options: Root beer or ginger ale provide fizzy refreshment alongside the pretzels.
How to Perfect Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Making the perfect soft pretzel at home can take practice. Here are some tips to ensure your pretzels turn out delicious every time.
- Use Warm Water: Ensure water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth to achieve that chewy texture.
- Boil Briefly: A 30-second boil helps create that signature pretzel crust; don’t skip this step!
- Preheat Oven Well: An adequately preheated oven ensures even baking and golden-brown results.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Soft pretzels are delightful on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with tasty side dishes. Here are some excellent options to complement your homemade treat.
- Cheese Fries: Crispy fries smothered in melted cheese make for a satisfying side.
- Buffalo Wings: Spicy wings add heat and excitement, perfect for dipping in ranch.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and balances flavors well.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic pairing that adds heartiness.
- Chili: A warm bowl of chili brings comfort and pairs nicely with the soft pretzel texture.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles offer a crisp contrast to the softness of the pretzel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making soft pretzels at home can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Yeast Activation: Not allowing the yeast mixture to foam can lead to dough that doesn’t rise. Always let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Over-Kneading the Dough: Kneading too long can make the pretzels tough. Aim for a smooth texture without overdoing it, around 4-5 minutes should suffice.
- Not Boiling Long Enough: A quick dip in boiling water is essential for that chewy texture. Ensure each pretzel is boiled for at least 30 seconds.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: An egg wash gives your pretzels a beautiful golden color and shine. Don’t skip this step; brush each pretzel before baking.
- Inadequate Baking Temperature: Baking at a lower temperature can result in pale pretzels. Preheat your oven to 450°F for that perfect golden crust.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store pretzels in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
- Wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- Frozen pretzels can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, but they may lose some crispiness.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over medium heat with a lid, warming for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe special?
This recipe combines simplicity with deliciousness, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Can I customize my Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds or garlic salt, or even add cheese inside the dough.
How do I serve Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels?
These pretzels are fantastic served warm with dips like mustard, cheese sauce, or even sweet options like chocolate!
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using whole wheat flour will give a nuttier flavor, but adjust the liquid as needed since it absorbs more moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe is not only fun to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying them with friends or customizing flavors for your family, these pretzels are sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to try out different toppings or dips!
Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Indulge in the warm, buttery goodness of homemade soft pretzels with this Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe. These delightful treats boast a perfectly chewy texture and golden-brown crust, making them ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a game day snack, a party appetizer, or simply a cozy treat at home. Pair them with an irresistible Salsa Verde Cheese Dipping Sauce for a gourmet touch that will have everyone coming back for more. Simple enough for novice bakers yet delicious enough to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 package active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and kosher salt. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit until foamy.
- Add flour and melted butter; mix on low speed until combined, then knead on medium until smooth (4-5 minutes).
- Oil the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled (50–55 minutes).
- Preheat oven to 450°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Boil water with baking soda in an 8-quart saucepan. Shape risen dough into pretzels.
- Boil each pretzel for about 30 seconds, then place on pans. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with pretzel salt.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel (90g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
