Are you looking for a delicious snack that is easy to make at home? Look no further than soft pretzels! These chewy yet fluffy treats are perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a main course. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make soft pretzels from scratch, including the ingredients, instructions, and nutrition information.
Ingredients
To make soft pretzels, you'll need the following ingredients: - 1 1/2 cups warm water - 1 tablespoon sugar - 2 teaspoons salt - 1 package active dry yeast - 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 10 cups water - 2/3 cup baking soda - 1 egg yolk, beaten - Coarse salt
Water
The first ingredient you'll need is warm water. This should be around 110-115°F, or just slightly warmer than body temperature. You'll need 1 1/2 cups of warm water for this recipe.
Sugar and Salt
Next, you'll need sugar and salt. The sugar is used to feed the yeast, and the salt helps to flavor the dough. You'll need 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 teaspoons of salt.
Yeast and Flour
To make the dough, you'll need active dry yeast and all-purpose flour. The yeast is what makes the dough rise, and the flour provides the structure. You'll need 1 package of active dry yeast and 4 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour.
Butter
For flavor and richness, you'll add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the dough.
Baking Soda
To give the pretzels their signature chewy texture and golden-brown color, you'll need baking soda. You'll use 2/3 cup of baking soda to create an alkaline bath that the pretzels will be dipped in before baking.
Egg Yolk and Salt
Finally, you'll need an egg yolk and coarse salt to finish the pretzels. The egg yolk will be beaten and brushed onto the pretzels before baking, and the coarse salt will be sprinkled on top for flavor and texture.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to make the pretzels! Follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Combine the Water, Sugar, Salt, and Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved. Add the active dry yeast and stir again. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy and bubbly.
Step 2: Add the Flour and Butter
Add the all-purpose flour and melted butter to the mixing bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F.
Step 6: Boil the Water and Baking Soda
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a boil.
Step 7: Shape the Pretzels
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope that is about 20 inches long. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape, making sure to tuck the ends underneath.
Step 8: Dip the Pretzels in the Alkaline Bath
Using a slotted spoon, lower each pretzel into the boiling water and baking soda bath for 30 seconds. Remove and place on a greased baking sheet.
Step 9: Brush with Egg Yolk and Sprinkle with Salt
Beat the egg yolk and brush it onto the top of each pretzel. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
Step 10: Bake the Pretzels
Bake the pretzels for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown.
Nutrition
Here is the nutrition information for one serving of soft pretzels (based on 12 servings): - Calories: 231 - Total Fat: 5g - Saturated Fat: 3g - Cholesterol: 27mg - Sodium: 668mg - Total Carbohydrates: 40g - Dietary Fiber: 2g - Sugars: 1g - Protein: 6g
Calories and Fat
One serving of soft pretzels contains 231 calories and 5g of total fat. This is a moderate amount of calories and fat for a snack or appetizer.
Cholesterol and Sodium
Soft pretzels are relatively high in cholesterol and sodium, with 27mg of cholesterol and 668mg of sodium per serving. If you are watching your cholesterol or sodium intake, you may want to limit your consumption of soft pretzels.
Carbohydrates and Protein
Soft pretzels are a good source of carbohydrates, with 40g per serving. They also contain 6g of protein, which can help you feel fuller for longer.
Conclusion
Soft pretzels are a delicious and fun snack to make at home. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create chewy, golden-brown pretzels that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!