Soft Pretzels

This soft pretzel recipe makes chewy, bakery-style pretzels with a golden crust and buttery finish. Top them with cinnamon sugar, garlic Parmesan, za’atar sesame, or keep them classic and plain.

📝 Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet )
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 10 cups water
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons parmesan cheese (grated )
• 3 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup za'atar spice
• 1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
• pretzel salt (as desired)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, whisk together warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.
2. 2Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a mixer until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
3. 3Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place until slightly puffed from the dough rise.
4. 4Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 20–22 inch rope and twist into a pretzel shape.
5. 5Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully add baking soda (it will bubble).
6. 6Boil pretzels 2 at a time for 30 seconds each. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. 7Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, until deep golden brown.
8. 8Brush warm pretzels with melted butter. Add toppings immediately, if using.