Deep Fried Pretzels
Crispy, golden deep-fried pretzels with a salty exterior and soft interior, perfect for snack lovers and parties, offering a delightful treat with a classic flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough is moist enough to gather into a ball.
- Knead the dough gently a few times.
- Pinch off pieces of dough and shape into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball between hands to form a 10-inch rope.
- Shape each rope into a pretzel form.
- Set the pretzels on waxed paper.
- Heat shortening to 365°F.
- Fry 3 pretzels at a time for about 3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use very cold water to keep the dough light and airy. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with butter or vegetable oil, though it may slightly alter the flavor. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown color. Consider adding a bit of baking soda to the dough for an authentic pretzel flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious deep-fried pretzels with a side of mustard for dipping, or pair them with a refreshing Gourmet Vegetable Salad for a nice contrast. They also make a great snack for game day, especially when accompanied by Nacho Salad or a selection of Mixed Pickles(Looks Like Grammy Williamson'S Mustard Pickles) to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore their crispiness, making them enjoyable again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deep Fried Pretzels contains roughly 534 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and frying.
What if I don't have a thermometer to check the oil temperature?
If you don't have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready for frying. Be cautious to avoid overheating the oil, as it can burn the pretzels.
Can I bake these pretzels instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the pretzels for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet, and brush them with melted butter. Bake for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown, though the texture will differ from the fried version.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).