Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists

Calling all pretzel lovers! This recipe for Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists offers a delicious and fun alternative to store-bought options. These soft, pillowy pretzels are easy to make at home without a bread machine, perfect for satisfying your pretzel cravings anytime.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists:

• Soft and Delicious: Made with a simple dough that results in a soft and chewy interior with a golden brown exterior.
• Easy to Make: No bread machine required! This recipe is achievable for bakers of all levels.
• Fun Twist: The twisted shape adds a playful element and allows for perfect portion control.
• Customizable: Explore different toppings like sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or even grated cheese for extra flavor.

Building Your Soft Pretzel Paradise:

• Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the pretzel dough.
• Yeast: Active dry yeast activates and creates a slight rise in the dough.
• Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps with browning.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Butter: Melted butter adds richness to the dough.
• Baking Soda (for Pretzel Bath): Creates the signature pretzel exterior and slight chewiness.

Ready to Twist Up Some Pretzel Perfection? Here’s a basic outline:

Ingredients (makes 6-8 pretzels):

• 1 ½ cups warm water (110-115°F)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 10 cups water
• ½ cup baking soda
• Coarse sea salt or desired toppings (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
7. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it into 6-8 equal pieces.
8. Roll each dough piece into a long rope, about 18-20 inches long.
9. Twist the rope into a pretzel shape and gently transfer it to the boiling baking soda water. Boil for 30 seconds per side.
10. Remove the pretzel from the water using a slotted spoon and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
11. Brush the pretzel tops with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt or your desired toppings (optional).
12. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
13. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of brown sugar and white sugar.
• Ensure the baking soda solution is at a rolling boil before adding the pretzels.
• If you don’t have coarse sea salt, you can use regular sea salt or even kosher salt.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage.

Final Thoughts:

These Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists are the perfect way to enjoy fresh, bakery-style pretzels at home. With their soft, chewy texture and customizable toppings, they’re a crowd-pleaser for all ages. So ditch the store-bought versions and embrace the fun and satisfaction of making your own delicious pretzels!