Mother Lode Pretzels

Sink your teeth into these irresistible homemade "Mother Lode Pretzels," the ultimate snack that combines soft, pillowy interiors with a perfectly golden, salty crust. This easy yeast-based recipe delivers authentic pretzel flavor with simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and warm water. A quick baking soda bath gives these pretzels their signature chewy texture, while a glossy egg wash ensures they bake to a rich, amber perfection. Ready in just over an hour, these pretzels are ideal for game day, gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat. Serve fresh from the oven with your favorite dips—cheese sauce, mustard, or even chocolate for a sweet twist—and watch them disappear in minutes!

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 packet Instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1.5 cups Warm water (110°F / 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted)
• 0.5 cup Baking soda
• 3 cups Hot water
• 1 large Egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons Coarse salt (for topping)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.

Step 2

Gradually add the warm water and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.

Step 3

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 5

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal portions.

Step 6

Roll each portion into a long rope (about 20 inches) and form into a pretzel shape.

Step 7

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 8

In a large bowl, dissolve baking soda in the hot water. Dip each pretzel into the mixture for about 30 seconds, ensuring full coverage.

Step 9

Place the dipped pretzels onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 10

Lightly whisk the egg yolk with a splash of water to create an egg wash. Brush it over the tops of the pretzels.

Step 11

Sprinkle coarse salt generously over each pretzel.

Step 12

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the pretzels turn golden brown.

Step 13

Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1778.9 grams (1778.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2122

Total Fat 32.50g	42%
Saturated Fat 16.90g	85%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 247mg	82%
Sodium 45844mg	1993%
Total Carbohydrate 394.90g	144%
Dietary Fiber 15.10g	54%
Total Sugars 26.60g
Protein 55.50g	111%

Vitamin D 18IU	91%
Calcium 179mg	14%
Iron 23mg	128%
Potassium 618mg	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: 14.0%

Protein: 10.6%

Carbs: 75.4%