Authentic German Pretzels

Transport your taste buds to the heart of Bavaria with this recipe for Authentic German Pretzels, a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect golden-brown, soft-baked treat. Made with wholesome, pantry-staple ingredients like all-purpose flour, warm water, and a touch of butter, these pretzels rise to perfection thanks to active dry yeast. The signature chewy texture and deep caramelized color are achieved through an essential baking soda bath, while a sprinkle of coarse sea salt adds the finishing touch. With just 60 minutes of prep time, these homemade pretzels are easier to make than you think, and they’re ideal for serving alongside mustard, cheese sauce, or even on their own as a savory snack. Whether you're recreating Oktoberfest at home or simply indulging in a beloved German classic, these pretzels will deliver bakery-quality results straight from your oven.

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:60 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams all-purpose flour
• 10 grams active dry yeast
• 30 grams sugar
• 10 grams salt
• 30 grams unsalted butter, softened
• 300 milliliters warm water
• 80 grams baking soda
• 2 liters water
• 10 grams coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well.

Step 2

Add the softened butter and warm water to the dry ingredients. Stir until the mixture starts to come together.

Step 3

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and divide it into 8 equal pieces.

Step 7

Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 50 cm (20 inches) in length. Form the ropes into pretzel shapes by making a U-shape, crossing the ends over each other, and pressing the ends onto the bottom of the U.

Step 8

In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda—this will cause the water to bubble up quickly.

Step 9

Dip each pretzel into the boiling baking soda solution for 20-30 seconds, ensuring all sides are coated. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 10

Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the pretzels to taste.

Step 11

Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your freshly baked German pretzels!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3003.2 grams (3003.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2186

Total Fat 29.70g	38%
Saturated Fat 16.20g	81%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 66mg	22%
Sodium 29778mg	1295%
Total Carbohydrate 415.30g	151%
Dietary Fiber 15.60g	56%
Total Sugars 31.00g
Protein 55.80g	112%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 199mg	15%
Iron 24mg	132%
Potassium 744mg	16%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 12.4%

Protein: 10.4%

Carbs: 77.2%