Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
110-115°F
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
plus more for topping
- 1 package active dry yeast
1/4-ounce
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
melted
- Vegetable oil
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg yolk beaten with 1 Tablespoon water
Directions
- 1
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the water, sugar and kosher salt. Sprinkle the yeast on top and allow it to sit for 5 minutes or until it begins to foam.
- 2
Secure the hook attachment to the stand mixer, then add the flour and butter to the bowl and mix on low until the ingredients are combined.
- 3
Increase the speed to medium and knead until the dough is smooth and pulls away from the side of the bowl, 4 to 5 minutes.
- 4
Remove the dough from the bowl. Clean the bowl and then grease it with vegetable oil.
- 5
Return the dough to the bowl, cover it with plastic wrap and place it in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. (Watch my video for how to proof bread in the dryer.)
- 6
Preheat the oven to 450ºF and position the oven racks in the middle two positions in your oven.
- 7
Line two sheet trays with lightly oiled parchment paper.
- 8
Stir together the 10 cups of water and the baking soda in an 8-quart pot. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- 9
While the water comes to a boil, turn the dough onto your work surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. (Do not flour your work surface; See Kelly's Notes.)
- 10
Applying even pressure, roll out each piece of dough into an 18- to 20-inch rope. Fold each rope in half, twisting the two pieces around one another and pressing the ends together. Twist the bottom end around the top, feeding it through the top hole and pressing to secure. (See photos for shaping instructions.) Return the twists to the cookie sheet.
- 11
One by one, carefully place each twist into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove each twist from the water using a large slotted spoon or spatula(s) and return it to the cookie sheet. Brush the tops of the twists with the egg yolk wash and sprinkle with kosher salt (optional).
- 12
Bake the twists until golden brown in color, 12 to 14 minutes, rotating the pans (between racks and turning to rotate pans) halfway through, then remove the twists from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- 13
Do not flour your work surface prior to rolling out the pretzels or the dough won't have enough traction against the surface. Using the palms of your hands, apply even pressure as you roll from the center out to form the dough into ropes.
Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 48 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving that irresistible chewy texture and salty crust of a perfect soft pretzel? This recipe for Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists brings the bakery experience right to your kitchen, offering a delightful baking project that culminates in a truly satisfying treat. Forget dry, flavorless imitations—these are the real deal.
What makes these pretzel twists truly stand out is the careful selection of classic ingredients. The active dry yeast ensures a beautifully soft and airy interior, while the precise amount of sugar and butter contribute to a tender crumb. The essential baking soda bath, a hallmark of traditional pretzel making, is key to achieving that iconic dark, glossy, and slightly crisp exterior, delivering the authentic pretzel flavor you crave.
Prepare for the ultimate comfort food experience. Each Homemade Soft Pretzel Twist offers a tender, airy crumb contrasted by a deeply browned, slightly crisp exterior. The sprinkle of coarse kosher salt on top adds that essential salty bite, balancing the subtle sweetness and rich, yeasty flavor. They're substantial yet surprisingly light, making them equally enjoyable as a snack or the foundation for a meal.
While incredibly delicious plain, these pretzel twists are a fantastic canvas for creativity. As suggested, a creamy cheese sauce makes for an unbeatable dipping experience. For a different savory twist, consider swapping the kosher salt topping for everything bagel seasoning before baking. If you're feeling adventurous, skip the salt entirely and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking for a sweet version. This recipe works wonderfully whether you're making them for a crowd or a cozy night in.
These Homemade Soft Pretzel Twists are ideal for game day gatherings, a fun weekend baking project, or as a unique appetizer that will impress any crowd. They're also perfect for slicing and stuffing with your favorite sandwich fillings, transforming them into a satisfying and truly special meal.