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Crispy Everything Bagel Soft Pretzels Recipe Easy Homemade Savory Crunch

crispy everything bagel soft pretzels - featured image

These homemade soft pretzels feature a crispy crust with savory everything bagel seasoning, delivering a perfect chewy and crunchy texture. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they bring nostalgic comfort with a modern twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (480g)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup baking soda (60g)
  • 8 cups water (1.9L) for baking soda bath
  • 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • Optional: melted butter for brushing

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add melted butter and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Add more flour if too sticky.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with a stand mixer dough hook for 6-7 minutes.
  4. First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a boil, then reduce to simmer.
  6. Shape pretzels: Punch down dough, divide into 8 pieces. Roll each into 20-inch ropes and twist into classic pretzel shapes.
  7. Baking soda bath: Using a slotted spatula, lower each pretzel into simmering baking soda bath for 30 seconds. Do in batches.
  8. Prepare for baking: Remove pretzels, place on parchment-lined baking sheets. Brush with melted butter (optional), sprinkle everything bagel seasoning and coarse salt.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  10. Cool on a rack for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure yeast is active by proofing it first. Do not skip the baking soda bath for the signature crust and color. Brush pretzels with melted butter after baking for extra flavor and shine. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine. Pretzels can be stored at room temperature for 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: soft pretzels, everything bagel seasoning, homemade pretzels, savory snack, crispy pretzels, easy pretzel recipe