There’s something about the warmth of freshly baked pretzels that always brings a smile to my face. The soft, doughy goodness paired with a sprinkle of coarse salt has a way of making even the most ordinary day feel special.
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This recipe for Homemade Soft Pretzels combines a Southern touch with an old-world snack. I remember growing up and enjoying soft pretzels with my family at a local fair, and since then, I’ve been hooked on making them at home, especially with a few dips to bring out their full flavor.
A Southern food classic
Southern food holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s the memories tied to every dish. I can still recall my grandmother baking bread on lazy Sunday afternoons, the warm smell filling the house.
One of our family favorites was always homemade soft pretzels. It’s a comfort food that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a big family gathering, these soft pretzels never fail to make things feel cozy and inviting.
Ingredients
How to make Homemade Soft Pretzels
Making homemade soft pretzels is easier than it sounds. Start by proofing the yeast with warm milk and sugar. Once it’s frothy, mix in the dry ingredients and softened butter. Knead the dough until it’s soft and smooth, and let it rise for about an hour.
After that, it’s all about shaping, dipping, and baking until golden brown. The best part? You get to enjoy them warm and fresh out of the oven, dripping with melted butter and sprinkled with salt.
Serving suggestions
These pretzels are perfect on their own, but they’re even better when paired with some Southern staples. Serve them alongside a warm bowl of chili or as a snack with a tangy mustard or sweetened cream cheese dip.
If you want to make it a full meal, consider serving them with some Southern fried chicken or alongside a crisp salad. They’re also great for family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in.
Storage tips
If you happen to have any leftover pretzels (though they’re hard to resist), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh, warm texture.
You can also freeze the pretzels for later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven to restore that soft, golden exterior.
Southern farewell
As you make these Homemade Soft Pretzels, remember that they aren’t just about the taste; they’re about the memories you create while making them.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I hope it brings a little bit of Southern warmth to your home. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just for yourself, I know you’ll love every bite.
Homemade Soft Pretzels
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Large baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
- Pastry Brush
- Large slotted spoon or tongs
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk warmed to 110 degrees Fahrenheit
- 1 1/4 ounce package fast acting dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 ½ cups flour plus additional for kneading
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
- 3 cups warm water
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- Coarse salt for topping
- ½ cup 1 stick butter, melted
- Optional for dipping: mustard sweetened cream cheese, warm cheese sauce
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir well.
- Cut the softened butter into small chunks and stir them into the dough mixture. It’s okay if some butter bits don’t fully mix in at this point.
- Add the remaining 1 ¼ cups flour, mixing until combined.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 5 minutes, adding up to ½ cup of flour if needed, until the dough is soft and slightly sticky.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F and grease a large baking sheet with non-stick spray or line it with a silicone baking mat.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 30 inches in length. Twist each rope into the classic pretzel shape.
- In a medium bowl, combine the warm water and baking soda. Stir well.
- Dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat for the remaining pretzels.
- Sprinkle with Salt Sprinkle each pretzel with coarse salt and bake in the oven for 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Check at the 8-minute mark to ensure they don't get too dark.
- Once baked, remove the pretzels from the oven. Use tongs to dip them into the melted butter, or brush the butter over the top and bottom of each pretzel. Sprinkle with additional coarse salt if desired.
- Serve the pretzels warm with mustard, sweetened cream cheese, or warm cheese sauce for dipping. Enjoy the soft, buttery goodness with family and friends!
