Amish Soft Pretzels
These golden, buttery soft pretzels have become an absolute staple in my household. There’s just something about the comforting aroma of fresh-baked pretzels wafting through the kitchen that immediately makes a busy day feel cozier. My kids can’t resist the salty crust paired with the creamy sweetness of the dipping sauce, and honestly, neither can I!
I first stumbled upon this recipe while trying to recreate the magic of mall pretzels at home. You know the ones—warm, slightly chewy, and totally irresistible. What surprised me most was how simple these are to make, even on a hectic weekday. They’ve become our go-to treat for everything from family movie nights to holiday get-togethers. I’ve even served them at a few potlucks, and they were the first thing to disappear from the table!
What I love most about these Amish soft pretzels is their versatility. They’re just as delicious on their own as they are dunked in a savory cheese dip or a sweet vanilla glaze. Whether you’re baking with kids, hosting guests, or just indulging in a well-deserved snack, this recipe is a surefire way to spread a little joy. Once you try them, I promise they’ll hold a special spot in your recipe collection too.
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe:
1. Can I freeze the pretzels?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked pretzels in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
2. Do I have to use coarse salt?
While coarse salt is traditional, you can use any salt you prefer. Just be mindful of the quantity if using fine salt—it’s saltier by weight.
3. Can I make these without a stand mixer?
Yes! Knead the dough by hand for about 8–10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
4. What’s the secret to that signature golden crust?
A quick dip in a baking soda and water solution gives the pretzels their classic texture and color. Don’t skip this step!
What You Need to Make Amish Soft Pretzels:
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup baking soda
9 cups water (for dipping)
1 egg yolk (beaten, for egg wash)
Coarse salt (for topping)
Optional: melted butter for brushing, sweet or savory dips
Tools:
Stand mixer (optional)
Large pot for baking soda solution
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Pastry brush
How to Make It:
Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Make the Dough: Add salt and flour gradually. Mix using a stand mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand until smooth. Let dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Pretzels: Preheat oven to 450°F. Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into a pretzel shape.
Prepare Baking Soda Bath: Boil water and baking soda in a large pot. Dip each pretzel in the solution for 30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake: Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter for extra flavor.
Tips:
Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast—too hot, and it will kill the yeast.
Don’t skip the baking soda bath; it’s essential for the pretzels’ signature flavor and texture.
Brush with melted butter right after baking for a softer, richer pretzel.
Customize your pretzels with toppings like cinnamon sugar, sesame seeds, or shredded cheese!
Latest Reviews:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Absolutely delicious! My kids helped me make them, and they had so much fun twisting the dough.” – Sarah R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Great recipe! Next time, I’ll add more salt to the dough for extra flavor.” – Jonathan M.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “These were just like the pretzels at the mall! I loved how easy they were to make.” – Emily W.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect for a family snack. I added a cheese dip, and they were a hit!” – Linda T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “So soft and buttery! These will be my go-to for holiday snacks.” – Megan P.
Printable Recipe:
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Amish Soft Pretzels
Warm, golden, and buttery, these Amish soft pretzels are perfect for family gatherings or a cozy snack. With a chewy texture and endless topping possibilities, this recipe is easy enough for busy moms and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup baking soda
- 9 cups water (for dipping)
- 1 egg yolk (beaten, for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for topping)
- Optional: melted butter for brushing, sweet or savory dips
- Tools:
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Large pot for baking soda solution
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough: Add salt and flour gradually. Mix using a stand mixer with a dough hook or knead by hand until smooth. Let dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Pretzels: Preheat oven to 450°F. Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist into a pretzel shape.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath: Boil water and baking soda in a large pot. Dip each pretzel in the solution for 30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Brush pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter for extra flavor.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it on your social media! I would love for more people to try this delicious and easy-to-make recipe. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! Shhh… Join our secret foodie group on Facebook
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