Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe
Chewy, golden soft pretzels with a coarse salt crust and cheese dip
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Homemade soft pretzels are chewy, golden, salty perfection — that bakery-fresh taste and aroma right from your own oven.
The baking soda bath is essential — it gives the outside that distinctive pretzel color, flavor, and chew.
Brush with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven and shower with coarse salt.
About This Recipe
"Homemade Soft Pretzels" is a Snack recipe that brings warm water, active dry yeast, sugar, all-purpose flour and salt together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Medium and ready in about 34 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 8 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German-American inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 10 cups water + 2/3 cup baking soda (for bath)
- 1 large egg, beaten (for wash)
- 2 tbsp coarse salt
- 3 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- 1
Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Add flour and salt. Knead 5 minutes until smooth.
- 2
Let rise 1 hour until doubled.
- 3
Divide into 8 pieces. Roll each into a 24-inch rope and shape into pretzels.
- 4
Bring baking soda water to a boil. Dip each pretzel for 30 seconds. Place on parchment-lined sheet.
- 5
Brush with egg wash. Sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake at 425°F for 12-14 minutes until deep golden.
- 6
Brush hot pretzels with melted butter. Serve with warm cheese dip or mustard.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Warm water is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Oven and stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Homemade Soft Pretzels" is a versatile Snack dish that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a handful of nuts, yogurt and classic German-American sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store Homemade Soft Pretzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or at room temperature for 1–2 days if it does not contain dairy or custard. Cover loosely so the texture stays fresh. For the best flavor, bring to room temperature before serving or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Homemade Soft Pretzels?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep and 14 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 34 minutes. It serves 8 and is rated Medium.
How do I store leftover Homemade Soft Pretzels?
Store leftover Homemade Soft Pretzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Homemade Soft Pretzels ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Homemade Soft Pretzels in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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