How To Make Soft Pretzels: Easy (Vegan) Homemade Recipe

Soft pretzels are a beloved street food and a classic mall snack across the country. Learn how to make soft pretzels yourself using this simple recipe.

Whether soft pretzels make you think of busy New York City street corners, or Auntie Anne’s in the mall food court, they are a well-loved snack across the US. The influx of German immigrants in the 19th century introduced this beloved snack to the American market. Making these doughy treats yourself is relatively straightforward, and make a great activity to try with children or a group of friends. Learn how to make soft pretzels using the recipe below. 

How to Make Soft Pretzels

If you use a lye or baking soda bath instead of an egg wash, most pretzel recipes will end up being vegan by default. While some bakers prefer to use butter instead of olive oil, it isn’t necessary and omitting butter keeps this recipe vegan-friendly. Here’s how to make soft pretzels. 

Ingredients

• 1½ cups warm water 
• 1 packet active dry yeast (7g)
• 1 tsp. salt 
• 1 tbsp. organic sugar 
• 1 tbsp. olive oil 
• 4 cups flour 
• Sea salt for sprinkling 

Baking Soda Bath

• ½ cup baking soda 
• 9 cups water 

Instructions

1. Add warm water to a bowl, and whisk in the yeast. Allow the mixture to rest for one minute before whisking in the salt, sugar, and oil. 
2. Slowly add 3 cups of flour, one at a time and mix with a wooden spoon until the dough is thick. Add the remaining flour as needed, until the dough is no longer sticky. You’ll know the dough is ready if it bounces back when pressed. 
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, and knead for 2½ to 3 minutes. Then shape into a ball, cover with a clean dishtowel and let rest for 10 minutes. 
4. Start your baking soda bath by bringing the water and baking soda mixture to a boil in a large pot on the stove. 
5. While you’re waiting, preheat the oven to 400F, and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper alternative. 
6. Cut the dough into small portions, approximately ½ cup size, and roll each portion into a 20 inch rope. Bring the ends together to form a circle, twist them together, and shape the dough into a pretzel. 
7. Drop the shaped pretzels into the baking soda bath for 20 seconds, and remove using a slotted spoon – this allows the extra water to drain off. 
8. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle with sea salt before baking in the oven for 12-15 minutes. They will appear golden brown when they’re done baking. 
9. Remove from oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. 

Tip: Try dipping your homemade soft pretzels in vegan cheese sauce!

Soft Pretzel Variations

When making your own soft pretzels, you have the ability to get creative when it comes to your flavors. Aside from the classic version which is made with salt, consider adding freshly ground black pepper too! Other variations on the classic include: 

• Cinnamon sugar: ¼ cup organic sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon  
• Herb and garlic: 3 teaspoons garlic powder and 2 teaspoons DIY Italian seasoning 
• Cheese: Grate your favorite cheese on top, or sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor 
• Everything bagel: 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, 2 tablespoons sea salt, and 1 tablespoon of each of the following: black sesame seeds, white sesame seeds, garlic powder, and onion powder. 
• Za’atar and sesame: 4 tablespoons za’atar spice and 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds 

Read more: 

• Homemade Microwave Popcorn: 2 Plastic-Free Methods
• Vegan Corn Dog Recipes: Plant-Based Comfort Food
• Is Brown Sugar Vegan? The Truth & Vegan Sugar Brands

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Tags: Guide Healthy Living Recipes Vegan Vegetarian