How to Make Delicious Sourdough Soft Pretzels at Home
Sourdough soft pretzels are a delicious twist on the classic pretzel, combining the beloved chewy texture with the tangy depth of sourdough. These homemade pretzels are the perfect snack for any occasion – whether you're hosting a party, watching a movie, or simply craving something salty and satisfying. Unlike store-bought pretzels, these sourdough pretzels are made from scratch, which means they have no preservatives, and you can customize the flavor to your liking.
The process of making sourdough pretzels involves using an active sourdough starter, which gives the dough a natural rise and adds a unique depth of flavor. The dough is shaped into the iconic pretzel form, boiled in a baking soda solution, and then baked until golden brown. The result is a soft and chewy exterior with a slightly crispy crust that’s irresistible. Plus, you can experiment with different toppings, such as coarse salt, cinnamon sugar, or sesame seeds, to make them even more enjoyable.
This step-by-step guide will teach you how to make sourdough soft pretzels from start to finish, including tips for perfecting your dough, shaping the pretzels, and baking them to perfection. With a bit of patience and love, you’ll soon be savoring these mouthwatering homemade sourdough pretzels.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing and kneading the dough. It should be big enough to allow the dough to rise.
- Stand Mixer (Optional): A stand mixer with a dough hook can make kneading easier, but you can also knead the dough by hand.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to the perfect pretzel dough.
- Dough Scraper: Useful for dividing the dough into portions and handling it without sticking.
- Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking during baking.
- Large Pot: For boiling the pretzels in the baking soda solution, which gives them that chewy texture and golden crust.
- Slotted Spoon: To gently lower the pretzels into the boiling water and remove them after they've been boiled.
- Sharp Knife or Razor Blade: For scoring the pretzels before baking, allowing them to expand properly during baking.
- Pastry Brush: Optional, for brushing an egg wash on the pretzels for a shiny, golden finish.
- Oven: Preheated to 450°F (230°C) for baking the pretzels until they’re golden brown and crispy
Ingredients
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup baking soda for boiling
- Coarse sea salt for topping
- 1 egg for egg wash, optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter and warm water. Stir until the starter is fully dissolved. Add the sugar, salt, and melted butter, then gradually mix in the flour until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can do this by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
- Step 2: First Rise
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Step 3: Shape the Pretzels
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 inches in length. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a "U" shape, crossing the ends over each other, and then folding them down to create the classic pretzel shape. Place the shaped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 4: Boil the Pretzels
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully drop the pretzels into the boiling water, one or two at a time, and boil for about 30 seconds on each side. Remove the pretzels using a slotted spoon and place them back onto the baking sheet.
- Step 5: Bake the Pretzels
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Optional: Brush the pretzels with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a little water) for a golden finish. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Notes
To enhance this sourdough soft pretzel recipe, consider these tips:
Use a Strong Sourdough Starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best rise and flavor.
Boil Longer: Increase the boiling time to 45 seconds per side for an even chewier texture.
Add Flavored Toppings: Experiment with garlic, cheese, or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
Use an Egg Wash: Brush the pretzels with an egg wash before baking for a golden, shiny finish.
Let the Dough Rise Longer: Allow the dough to rise longer for deeper flavor and a better texture.
Use a Strong Sourdough Starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best rise and flavor.
Boil Longer: Increase the boiling time to 45 seconds per side for an even chewier texture.
Add Flavored Toppings: Experiment with garlic, cheese, or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
Use an Egg Wash: Brush the pretzels with an egg wash before baking for a golden, shiny finish.
Let the Dough Rise Longer: Allow the dough to rise longer for deeper flavor and a better texture.