Description
Savor this recipe that transforms simple ingredients into pretzel perfection. These golden pretzels boast a soft, pillowy interior encased in a lightly salted, golden-brown crust. Soft pretzels promise a taste of comfort in every bite, making them a must-have addition to your fresh-baked snacks.
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups of all purpose flour
2 cups of warm water
1/2 tablespoon of active dry yeast
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 tablespoon of molasses
For Alkaline Bath:
10 cups of water
2/3 cup of baking soda
Instructions
Soft Pretzel Dough
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Add the yeast to a bowl of warm water at least (108° F/42°C) and let it create a raft during blooming. Add flour, sugar, and salt to a mixing bowl.
Add the yeast mixture to the mixing bowl with the dry ingredients and mix until the dough forms a ball that pulls away from the edges of the bowl. Add the dough ball to an oiled bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for at least 1 hour.
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After your pretzel dough has risen and you've punched it down, turn it onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into manageable portions. Roll each portion into a thin rope roughly 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) in diameter. The length can vary, but it is usually around 12-18 inches (30-45 cm).
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With the open end facing you, twist the ends of the rope together, bringing the ends to the bottom of the loop and securing.
Boiling Pretzels:
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Prepare a pot of boiling water and add baking soda. Boil the pretzel bites in batches for around 20-30 seconds. This boiling step gives the pretzels their classic chewy texture.
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Using a slotted spoon, remove the pretzel bites from the boiling water and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other to prevent sticking during baking. Sprinkle coarse salt or any desired toppings over the pretzel bites. Classic pretzel salt or even cinnamon sugar works well.
Baking Pretzels:
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Bake the pretzels at 400° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the soft pretzel bites to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm and served with various dipping sauces.
Notes
These are directions for Pretzel knots. If you prefer pretzel bites, use a sharp knife or a dough cutter to cut the rope into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm) in length. You can make them slightly larger or smaller based on your preference. If you prefer a rounder shape, roll each cut piece between your palms to create a ball. This step is optional, and you can leave them in their cut form for a more rustic appearance.