Experience the authentic taste of Germany with these homemade Delicious German Pretzels! With their soft, chewy interiors and golden, delightfully salted exteriors, these iconic baked treats are surprisingly simple to make. Using basic pantry staples like all-purpose flour, instant yeast, and melted butter, the recipe features a traditional baking soda bath that ensures their signature dark crust and distinct flavor. Perfect for snacking, parties, or Oktoberfest celebrations, these pretzels come together in just 30 minutes of prep time, plus a satisfying rise and quick bake. Serve them warm with mustard, creamy cheese sauce, or your favorite dip for a taste of classic Bavarian comfort right at home.
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Add the melted butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a rough dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
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 it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil and slowly add the baking soda, stirring to dissolve. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 50-60 cm (20-24 inches) long. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, crossing the ends, and then pressing them onto the bottom curve of the U.
Using a slotted spoon, gently dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for about 20-30 seconds. Place the pretzels onto the prepared baking sheets.
Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse salt while they are still wet from the bath.
Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Remove the pretzels from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or just on their own!
Calories |
2248 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 45.7 g | 59% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.4 g | 132% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 109 mg | 36% | |
| Sodium | 30046 mg | 1306% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 397.1 g | 144% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.6 g | 56% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.6 g | ||
| Protein | 55.1 g | 110% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 82 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 23.6 mg | 131% | |
| Potassium | 626 mg | 13% | |
*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.