How to make it
8 steps. Take it one step at a time.
Whisk together the warm water, yeast, sugar, salt, and melted butter
Whisk together the warm water (110°F (43°C)), yeast, sugar, salt, and melted butter in a large bowl.
Slowly add the flour, 1 cup
Slowly add the flour, 1 cup (125g) at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
5 minPlace dough in a greased bowl
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
1 hrPreheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a long rope about 20-22 inches long. Form into a 'U' shape, cross the ends, and press them onto the bottom to create the pretzel shape.
Bring 9 cups of water and the baking soda
In a large pot, bring 9 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Drop pretzels into the boiling water one at a time for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on baking sheets.
1 minBrush each pretzel
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
Bake for 12-15 minutes or
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until dark golden brown.
15 min
A little kitchen wisdom
The baking soda bath is essential for the characteristic pretzel flavor and deep golden color. For a sweeter version, omit the coarse salt and brush with melted butter then toss in cinnamon sugar after baking.
