Soft Pretzels at Home – Better Than the Mall

A Freshly Baked Classic, Now in Your Kitchen

Forget overpriced food court pretzels. These homemade soft pretzels are warm, golden, and incredibly soft inside — better than any you’ve had at the mall. The dough is easy to work with, the results are satisfying, and the smell? Irresistible.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crisp on the outside, perfectly soft inside

• No fancy tools or ingredients needed

• Fun to shape and great for kids to help with

• Customizable toppings: classic salt, cinnamon sugar, or even cheese

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Ingredients

• 1½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)

• 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ tsp)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar

• 4 cups all-purpose flour

• ⅓ cup baking soda (for boiling)

• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

• Coarse sea salt or topping of choice

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

Stir in salt and flour. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth. Let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.

3. Shape the Pretzels

Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll into long ropes and twist into pretzel shapes.

4. Boil Briefly

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add baking soda. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then transfer to a baking sheet.

5. Bake to Perfection

Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.

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Pro Tips from the Chef

• Don’t skip the boil. This step gives the pretzels their chewy crust.

• Want sweet? Brush with melted butter after baking and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

• Freezer-friendly: Freeze baked pretzels and reheat for 10 minutes at 350°F.

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The Verdict

Golden brown, soft, and salty — these pretzels will have you rethinking your next mall trip. Homemade wins every time.