Soft Pretzel Rolls

If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s delightfully soft on the inside and beautifully golden on the outside, you’re in for a treat. Soft Pretzel Rolls combine the chewy magic of classic pretzels with the convenience of a roll—perfect for sandwiches or just dunking in your favorite dip. Learn how to make soft pretzel rolls with a golden crust and fluffy inside that will elevate your baking game and keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Texture: Experience the ideal balance of a chewy crust and fluffy interior every time.
• Versatile Use: Great as a snack, sandwich base, or accompaniment to soups and salads.
• Impressive Yet Easy: A bakery-quality treat you can make in your kitchen without fuss.
• Customizable Flavor: Easily adjust toppings and dips to suit any palate.
• Family Favorite: A recipe loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for gatherings or everyday enjoyment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that all contribute to its irresistible character—flour for structure, yeast for rise, and a baking soda bath for that iconic pretzel crust.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the sturdy yet tender base for your rolls.
• Active Dry Yeast: Essential for creating that perfect rise and airy crumb.
• Warm Water: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast and helps brown the crust.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Baking Soda: Used in the boiling bath to give the pretzels their signature deep brown crust.
• Melted Butter: Adds richness and a soft finish when brushed on top.
• Coarse Sea Salt: Sprinkled on top to add texture and that classic salty crunch.

Variations for Soft Pretzel Rolls

Soft pretzel rolls are wonderfully easy to customize, so don’t hesitate to experiment. Whether you want to cater to dietary needs or just mix up the flavors, these variations will spice up your baking routine.

• Cheese-Stuffed Rolls: Add a cube of your favorite cheese in the center before shaping for a gooey surprise.
• Herb-Infused Dough: Incorporate rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for an aromatic twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking to enjoy these rolls gluten-free.
• Sweet Pretzel Rolls: Add a touch of cinnamon and sugar on top instead of salt for a dessert version.
• Seeded Toppings: Sprinkle sesame, poppy, or everything bagel seasoning to add extra bite and color.

How to Make Soft Pretzel Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving sugar in warm water, then sprinkle the yeast over the surface. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir in the yeast mixture gradually, mixing until a rough dough forms. Then knead the dough either by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes, which develops strong gluten for that chewy texture.

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—usually around 1 to 1.5 hours.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into evenly sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then gently flatten and pinch any seam closed to form perfect rolls.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Carefully drop each roll into the simmering water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking tray. This step creates the pretzel’s classic chewy crust.

Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake

Brush the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the rolls cool slightly before digging in—they taste best warm, with that delicate crunch and heavenly softness inside.

Pro Tips for Making Soft Pretzel Rolls

• Perfect Water Temperature: Use water around 105-110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
• Knead Well: Kneading develops gluten, crucial for chewy, soft-inside rolls.
• Watch Your Boiling Time: Boil the rolls briefly in the baking soda solution to ensure the crust forms properly.
• Use Baking Soda, Not Baking Powder: Baking soda in the bath is key to creating that pretzel’s signature color and crunch.
• Don’t Skip Butter: Brushing melted butter right after baking adds flavor and moisture to the crust.

How to Serve Soft Pretzel Rolls

Garnishes

Top your soft pretzel rolls with coarse sea salt for the classic flavor or try sprinkling everything bagel seasoning, grated parmesan, or even a light dusting of garlic powder to elevate their savory appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve these rolls alongside hearty soups like beer cheese or tomato basil, or pair with fresh salads to balance the richness. They also make excellent companions to dipping sauces like spicy mustard, cheese dip, or creamy ranch.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice them in half and fill with deli meats and cheeses for sandwich perfection, or use as a base for sliders at your next game day. You can even turn them into bread bowls for chili or creamy dips to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled soft pretzel rolls in an airtight container or zip-top bag and store at room temperature for up to two days to keep their texture intact.

Freezing

Freeze the rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly, but the oven method helps maintain the crust’s crunchiness.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Bread flour will result in even chewier rolls due to its higher protein content, but all-purpose flour works perfectly fine for soft pretzel rolls.

Why do I need to boil the rolls in baking soda water?

The baking soda bath gives the rolls their characteristic chewy crust and rich brown color, mimicking traditional pretzel baking techniques.

Can I make soft pretzel rolls dairy-free?

Yes, substitute melted butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative, and ensure any toppings used are dairy-free.

How long do soft pretzel rolls keep fresh?

For best taste and texture, consume within two days at room temperature, or freeze them to extend freshness for up to three months.

Can I add toppings other than salt?

Definitely! Herbs, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even cheese are fantastic options to customize the flavor and crunch of your rolls.

Final Thoughts

Soft pretzel rolls are a delightful baking project that rewards you with a warm, golden treat perfect for snacking or sharing. Once you get the hang of the steps, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, impressing friends and family with soft, chewy rolls bursting with flavor. So go ahead, try making these soft pretzel rolls and discover a new favorite for your kitchen adventures.

Related Posts

• Soft Pretzel Twists
• Pizza Hut Breadsticks (Copycat)
• Smoked Salmon Cheese Ball

Print