Pretzels

Auntie Anne’s Style Soft Pretzels are the ultimate homemade comfort snack—golden-brown, buttery, and delightfully chewy. With their signature twist and savory finish, these pretzels taste just like your favorite mall indulgence but are made fresh in your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed plain, with cheese dip, or brushed with cinnamon sugar, they’re a satisfying treat for any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pretzels combine nostalgic flavor with simple, straightforward preparation. The chewy interior, crisp exterior, and buttery finish make them an irresistible snack or party appetizer. The baking soda bath creates that classic texture and golden crust, while the egg wash and salt finish provide that iconic look and taste. This recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers looking to recreate a beloved favorite at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• warm water (110°F/45°C)
• active dry yeast
• salt
• granulated sugar
• all-purpose flour
• baking soda (for water bath)
• egg yolk
• water (for egg wash)
• coarse sea salt
• unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

directions

Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating that the yeast is active.

Stir in salt and begin gradually adding flour, mixing until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.

Shape the Pretzels:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 20-inch rope and twist into a traditional pretzel shape.

Baking Soda Bath:
Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling baking soda bath for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Pretzels:
Brush each pretzel with the egg yolk and water mixture. Sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

Finishing Touch:
Immediately brush the warm pretzels with melted butter before serving for that signature Auntie Anne’s taste.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 pretzels
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal per pretzel

Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: After baking, brush with butter and coat in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar instead of salt.
• Cheddar Pretzels: Top with shredded cheddar cheese before baking for a savory variation.
• Garlic Butter Pretzels: Add minced garlic to the melted butter for a garlicky finish.
• Pretzel Bites: Cut the dough into small pieces before boiling and baking for bite-sized snacks.
• Stuffed Pretzels: Fill the dough with cheese or chocolate before shaping and baking for a surprise center.

storage/reheating

Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds. For best results, reheat with a quick brush of butter.

FAQs

Do I have to use a baking soda bath?

Yes, the baking soda bath is crucial for achieving the pretzels’ signature chew and deep golden color.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping.

Can I freeze the pretzels?

Yes, baked pretzels freeze well. Wrap individually and thaw or reheat directly in the oven when ready to serve.

How do I get the traditional pretzel shape?

Roll the dough into a long rope, form a U shape, then twist the ends twice and fold them down to the bottom of the U.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the flour.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Ensure your yeast is active and your environment is warm enough. You can place the bowl in a slightly warm oven to help it rise.

Can I make them without egg wash?

You can skip the egg wash, but it helps with color and salt adhesion. Alternatively, use milk or melted butter.

Are these pretzels sweet or savory?

This version is savory with coarse salt, but you can adapt it to sweet by using cinnamon sugar.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, bread flour will yield a slightly chewier texture.

What dipping sauces go well with these pretzels?

Cheese sauce, mustard, or a sweet glaze like cream cheese icing for cinnamon versions are great options.

Conclusion

Auntie Anne’s Style Soft Pretzels bring the magic of the mall right into your home kitchen. With their chewy centers, buttery crusts, and endless topping possibilities, these homemade pretzels are as fun to make as they are to eat. Whether enjoyed warm with dipping sauce or customized to suit your taste, they’re a timeless treat worth savoring fresh from the oven.

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