How to Make Bavarian Pretzels - A Step-by-Step Guide

Bavarian pretzels are a beloved snack that originated in Germany. With their crispy outer crust and soft, doughy interior, these pretzels are the perfect combination of salty and savory. Whether you're enjoying them on their own or with your favorite mustard or cheese dip, Bavarian pretzels are a delicious treat that will transport you to the beer gardens and cafes of Germany.

Traditionally, Bavarian pretzels are made with a yeasted dough that is given a quick dip in a hot water bath befo...

Read more Snack recipes

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided, or more as needed
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 ⅓ cups water
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt, or to taste

Information

  • Prep Time: 40 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Additional Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
  • Servings: 6
  • Yield: 6 large pretzels

  • Gather all ingredients.
  • Whisk 1 cup flour, yeast, and sugar together in a bowl. Stir in water and softened butter until well combined. Let stand until bubbles begin to form, about 15 minutes.
  • Stir salt into yeast mixture, then gradually stir in 2 1/2 cups flour until dough can be picked up in a ball.
  • Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes, adding more flour if needed.
  • Divide dough into 6 pieces and let rest for a few minutes.
  • Roll one piece into a 15-inch rope, then loop and twist rope into a pretzel shape. Place onto a baking sheet and form remaining pretzels. Cover and let rise for 15 minutes.
  • Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F (220 degrees C). Grease a baking sheet.
  • Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a pot. Stir in baking soda and remove from the heat.
  • Dip pretzels into the water bath for about 45 seconds, flipping over about halfway through.
  • Transfer soaked pretzels to the prepared baking sheet; brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Nutrition

    342 cal.

    • Total Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 5g
    • Cholesterol: 20mg
    • Sodium: 3099mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 57g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3g
    • Total Sugars: 1g
    • Protein: 8g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 16mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 100mg