Soft And Simple Pretzels
Soft, chewy pretzels with a shiny crust, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings. Their simple ingredients and classic flavor make them a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Defrost frozen bread dough rolls in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Shape each roll into a 12-inch strip and twist into a pretzel shape.
- Let the shaped pretzels rise, uncovered, for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot.
- Briefly boil each pretzel in the water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.
- Brush the pretzels with slightly beaten egg white.
- Sprinkle with sesame, caraway, poppy seed, or coarse salt as desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, allow the dough to defrost overnight in the refrigerator for a more manageable texture. If you want to experiment, you can substitute the sesame seeds with coarse salt or poppy seeds for different flavors. To enhance the pretzels, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder before baking, which can elevate the taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these soft pretzels warm with a side of mustard or cheese dip for a delightful snack. They pair beautifully with a cold beverage, making them perfect for a game day treat or a casual gathering. You can also enjoy them as a fun appetizer alongside dishes like Mississippi Mist Pie or Championship Cookies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft And Simple Pretzels contains roughly 2209 calories, with 58g protein, 425g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (120% of the Daily Value), protein (117% of the Daily Value), and calcium (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 use fresh bread dough instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh bread dough if you prefer. Just ensure it has risen properly before shaping into pretzels. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield delicious results.
What can I use instead of egg white for brushing?
If you're looking for a vegan option, you can brush the pretzels with a mixture of water and a little plant-based milk for a nice shine. Alternatively, melted vegan butter works well for a rich flavor.
How can I make these pretzels more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a bit of garlic powder, onion powder, or even herbs to the boiling water. You can also experiment with different toppings like everything bagel seasoning for a unique twist.
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).