Description
Warm German-style soft pretzels invite culinary adventurers into a world of salty, golden-brown deliciousness. Crisp exterior and chewy interior promise a delightful experience you won’t forget, making each bite a celebration of traditional bakery magic.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Boiling Solution:
- 2/3 cup baking soda
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon water
- Coarse salt for topping
Instructions
- Awaken the yeast by combining it with tepid water, allowing the mixture to bloom and become frothy for approximately 5 minutes.
- Incorporate salt and sugar into the activated yeast solution, then gradually fold in flour until a cohesive dough emerges. Knead the mixture thoroughly for 5-7 minutes, developing a smooth and elastic texture.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled container, drape with a clean kitchen towel, and permit it to rise in a warm environment until it doubles in volume, roughly 1 hour.
- Heat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Segment the risen dough into 8 uniform portions, then roll each piece into elongated ropes and artfully twist them into classic pretzel formations.
- Prepare a poaching liquid by bringing water and baking soda to a vigorous boil. Submerge each pretzel in the alkaline bath for 30 seconds, which will enhance their signature bronzed exterior and distinctive flavor profile.
- Gently paint the pretzels with beaten egg, creating a lustrous sheen, and generously dust with coarse salt to introduce a delightful textural contrast.
- Position the pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake until they achieve a rich, golden-brown complexion, approximately 12-15 minutes.
Notes
- Choose warm water between 110-115°F to perfectly activate yeast without killing it.
- Knead dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking and develop gluten structure for chewier pretzels.
- Use room temperature ingredients to help dough rise consistently and create better texture.
- Experiment with alternative toppings like everything bagel seasoning, cinnamon sugar, or herbs for unique flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg