Homemade Pretzels

Total Time

Prep: 25 min. + rising Bake: 15 min.

Makes

20 pretzels

Updated: Feb. 11, 2022
These pretzels are crisp on the outside and chewy inside. They rival many of the hot pretzels found in stores.—Suzanne McKinley, Lyons, Georgia

Ingredients

  • 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
  • 1-1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
  • 4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • Coarse salt

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add flour and salt; stir to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead 4-5 times. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 15 minutes.
  2. Punch dough down and divide into 20 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 15-in. long strip; twist into a pretzel shape. Combine baking soda and cold water; brush over pretzels. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
  3. Place on greased baking sheets. Bake at 450° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.