Buttery soft pretzels are a delicious, chewy snack with a golden-brown crust and a rich buttery flavor. These homemade pretzels are perfect for dipping in cheese sauce, mustard, or enjoying on their own. With a simple dough and a quick baking soda bath, you can recreate the classic mall-style pretzels right in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and chewy texture – These pretzels have a pillowy interior with a slightly crisp crust.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great baking project.
Versatile – Enjoy them plain, salted, or with a variety of seasonings and dips.
Great for snacking – Perfect for parties, game nights, or an afternoon treat.
Tastes better than store-bought – Freshly made pretzels have an unbeatable flavor and texture.

Buttery Soft Pretzels 10 Buttery soft pretzels are a delicious, chewy snack with a golden-brown crust and a rich buttery flavor. These homemade pretzels are perfect for dipping in cheese sauce, mustard, or enjoying on their own. With a simple dough and a quick baking soda bath, you can recreate the classic mall-style pretzels right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Warm water
Sugar
Salt
Baking soda
Butter (melted)
Coarse salt (for topping)

Directions

Activate the yeast: Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Make the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
Let it rise: Cover and let the dough rest for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the pretzels: Divide the dough into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape into pretzels.
Baking soda bath: Dissolve baking soda in boiling water. Dip each pretzel for 20-30 seconds, then place on the baking sheet.
Bake: Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Brush with butter: Immediately brush with melted butter for a rich, buttery finish.
Serve warm: Enjoy with dips like mustard or cheese sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 pretzels
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes (plus rising time)

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: Skip the salt and brush baked pretzels with butter, then coat with a cinnamon-sugar mix.
Cheesy Pretzels: Add shredded cheese to the dough or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
Garlic Butter Pretzels: Brush with garlic butter instead of plain butter for extra flavor.
Stuffed Pretzels: Fill the dough with cheese or chocolate before shaping.
Spicy Pretzels: Sprinkle with chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked pretzels for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast can be mixed directly with the dry ingredients without proofing.

Why do I need a baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath gives pretzels their distinctive chewy texture and deep golden-brown crust.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! Refrigerate the dough overnight and bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I get a deep golden-brown color?

Make sure the baking soda bath is hot, and bake at a high temperature for best results.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. A 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works well.

What can I dip pretzels in?

Popular dips include cheese sauce, mustard, honey butter, or chocolate spread.

How can I make the pretzels extra soft?

Brush them with extra melted butter after baking and cover with a towel for a few minutes to trap moisture.

Can I make smaller or larger pretzels?

Absolutely! Adjust the size and baking time accordingly.

Why are my pretzels not chewy enough?

Ensure the baking soda bath is done correctly and don’t skip kneading the dough well.

Can I make pretzel bites instead of full pretzels?

Yes! Cut the dough into bite-sized pieces and follow the same steps for baking.

Conclusion

Buttery soft pretzels are a perfect homemade snack that combines a chewy texture, golden crust, and rich buttery flavor. Whether you enjoy them salty, sweet, or stuffed, this easy recipe will help you make bakery-quality pretzels at home. Try different variations and enjoy fresh, warm pretzels any time!