Homemade Soft Pretzels
Introduction:
Discover the irresistible allure of homemade soft pretzels, surpassing any store-bought alternative. These delectable twists boast a buttery texture, with a chewy exterior giving way to a pillowy-soft inside. Topped with savory salt and optionally adorned with everything but the bagel seasoning, they’re perfect for dipping into your favorite sauce.
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:
- Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Whisk thoroughly and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.
- Mix the Dough: To the same bowl, add flour, olive oil, and salt. Attach the kneading attachment and knead the mixture on low for about five minutes, or until it forms a cohesive ball of dough. Alternatively, knead by hand if a stand mixer is unavailable. The dough should exhibit a springy texture when pressed with a finger.
- Rise and Rest: Remove the dough from the bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and return it to the bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Pretzels: After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces on a floured surface. Roll each piece into a rope, approximately 18-24 inches long, and shape them into pretzels. Refer to our video tutorial for assistance if needed.
- Preheat and Boil: Preheat the oven to 450°F. Meanwhile, bring 6 cups of water and 2 tbsp of baking soda to a boil in a pot. Once boiling, dip each pretzel into the mixture for 15-30 seconds before transferring them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Egg Wash and Season: Immediately brush each pretzel with egg wash and generously sprinkle with coarse salt and everything but the bagel seasoning.
- Bake: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes or until they achieve a golden brown hue.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pretzels to cool on a wire rack before serving. Pair them with your preferred dipping sauce, such as cheese, and indulge in the irresistible homemade goodness!
