Nice Soft Pretzels

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and soft, pillowy texture of homemade Nice Soft Pretzels, the perfect blend of bakery-quality flavor and simple, approachable techniques. This recipe brings together pantry staples like all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, and melted butter to create golden brown pretzels with chewy interiors and a signature salty crust. The key to their iconic texture lies in a quick baking soda bath, which sets the pretzel dough for that classic exterior. Brushed with a glossy egg wash and sprinkled with coarse salt, these pretzels are baked to perfection in just 15 minutes. Whether served warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or enjoyed on their own, this crowd-pleasing treat is ideal for game days, snacks, or any time you crave a savory homemade delight. Perfectly soft and satisfyingly salty, these pretzels are a must-add to your baking repertoire.

Nutriscore Rating: 55/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:15 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
• 0.25 cup Baking soda
• 4 cups Hot water (for baking soda bath)
• 2 tablespoons Coarse salt (for topping)
• 1 Egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir to dissolve and let sit for 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2

Add the salt, melted butter, and 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until the dough comes together.

Step 3

Gradually add the remaining 1 cup of flour and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Step 4

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

Step 5

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 6

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking soda and 4 cups of hot water. Stir until dissolved and set aside.

Step 7

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

Step 8

Roll each piece into a rope about 20-24 inches long. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends, and pressing them onto the bottom of the U.

Step 9

Gently dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 10

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water to create the egg wash. Brush the egg wash over each pretzel, then sprinkle with coarse salt.

Step 11

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

Step 12

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

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1975.3 grams (1975.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2075

Total Fat 32.50g	42%
Saturated Fat 16.90g	85%
Polyunsaturated Fat NaNg
Cholesterol 247mg	82%
Sodium 30702mg	1335%
Total Carbohydrate 382.20g	139%
Dietary Fiber 14.50g	52%
Total Sugars 14.10g
Protein 55.20g	110%

Vitamin D 18IU	91%
Calcium 95mg	7%
Iron 23mg	128%
Potassium 682mg	15%

*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: 14.3%

Protein: 10.8%

Carbs: 74.9%