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Homemade Soft Pretzels

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Homemade Soft Pretzels are a fun, satisfying snack with a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. These pretzels are a perfect treat for any occasion, customizable with toppings like coarse salt or ‘everything but the bagel’ seasoning.

Ingredients

2 and 1/4 tsp active dry yeast

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 and 1/2 cups warm water

4 and 1/2 cups flour

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tsp salt

6 cups water

2 tbsp baking soda

1 egg

Coarse salt (for topping)

Everything but the bagel seasoning (for topping)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve the brown sugar in warm water and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center, and add the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  5. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 portions. Roll each into a rope about 18-24 inches long. Shape each into a ‘U’, twist the ends over, and press into the bottom to form the pretzel shape. Place them on the baking sheet.
  6. In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of baking soda to a boil. Drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
  7. Brush the pretzels with the egg wash and sprinkle with salt or ‘everything but the bagel’ seasoning.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Notes

To make mini pretzels, divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce baking time.

For a cheesy version, top with grated cheddar after baking.

For a sweet twist, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking instead of salt.

For vegan pretzels, use non-dairy milk for the wash instead of egg.

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