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Soft Pretzels Auntie Annes Style Recipe Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels with Tender Airy Crumb

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This recipe delivers soft, chewy pretzels with a tender, airy crumb and a golden, slightly crisp crust, perfect for family gatherings or cozy snacks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus coarse salt for sprinkling)
  • 4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) baking soda (for boiling bath)
  • 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water with sugar. Stir gently, sprinkle yeast over the surface, and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add melted butter, salt, and about 3 1/2 cups (420 g) flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until dough starts to come together.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn dough onto floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes, adding flour as needed until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with dough hook on medium speed for 6–7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Place dough in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  6. Prepare baking soda bath: Bring 10 cups (2.4 liters) water to boil in large pot. Slowly add baking soda, reduce heat to maintain gentle boil.
  7. Shape pretzels: Punch down dough, divide into 8 pieces. Roll each into 20-inch ropes and form classic pretzel shape.
  8. Boil pretzels: Lower pretzels into boiling baking soda bath for 30 seconds each side using slotted spoon or spider strainer. Remove and place on baking sheets.
  9. Apply egg wash and sprinkle coarse salt on pretzels.
  10. Bake pretzels for 12–15 minutes until deep golden brown, watching closely after 10 minutes.
  11. Cool pretzels on wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip the baking soda bath to achieve the signature chewy crust and glossy finish. Knead dough until soft and elastic, and allow it to rise fully for the best airy crumb. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. For dairy-free, substitute butter with melted coconut or neutral oil. Variations include cheese-stuffed, cinnamon sugar, gluten-free, whole wheat, or garlic herb toppings.

Nutrition

Keywords: soft pretzels, Auntie Anne's style, homemade pretzels, baking soda bath, chewy pretzels, easy pretzel recipe, snack, comfort food

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/soft-pretzels-auntie-annes-style-recipe-easy-homemade-soft-pretzels-with-tender-airy-crumb/