Bavarian Pretzel

Discover the irresistible charm of homemade Bavarian Pretzels, a classic German snack that's perfect for any occasion. These golden-brown delights feature a soft, chewy interior and a signature salty crust, achieved through a quick dip in a baking soda bath before baking. Made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, warm water, and melted butter, the dough rises to perfection, creating pretzels that are both pillowy and flavorful. The hallmark twisted shape is as fun to create as it is beautiful to serve. Ready in just over 90 minutes, these pretzels are ideal for festivals, game nights, or pairing with your favorite mustard or cheese dip. Elevate your baking repertoire with this authentic recipe and enjoy the taste of Germany right from your kitchen!

Nutriscore Rating: 54/100

Prep Time:90 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 7 grams Instant yeast
• 60 grams Unsalted butter
• 300 milliliters Warm water
• 10 grams Salt
• 100 grams Baking soda
• 2 liters Water
• 15 grams Coarse salt

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well with a wooden spoon or a spatula.

Step 2

Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan or microwave until fully melted. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3

Pour the warm water into the dry ingredients, followed by the melted butter. Mix until a dough begins to form.

Step 4

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7

In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil and add in the baking soda. Stir well and lower the heat to a simmer.

Step 8

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.

Step 9

Roll each piece into a long rope, about 50-60 cm long, then shape them into pretzels by forming a U-shape and crossing the ends over each other twice before pressing the ends onto the bottom of the U.

Step 10

Carefully dip each shaped pretzel into the simmering baking soda water for about 30 seconds, ensuring they are fully submerged.

Step 11

Remove the pretzels with a slotted spatula, draining any excess water, and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 12

Sprinkle the pretzels generously with coarse salt.

Step 13

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

Step 14

Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy your homemade Bavarian pretzels warm or at room temperature!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3025.2 grams (3025.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2278

Total Fat 56.60g	73%
Saturated Fat 30.80g	154%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 133mg	44%
Sodium 37202mg	1617%
Total Carbohydrate 384.60g	140%
Dietary Fiber 15.60g	56%
Total Sugars 1.10g
Protein 55.10g	110%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 206mg	16%
Iron 24mg	131%
Potassium 628mg	13%

*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: 22.5%

Protein: 9.7%

Carbs: 67.8%