Soft Pretzel Rolls
Soft Pretzel Rolls combine the chewy texture of classic pretzels with the convenience of a roll, featuring a golden crust and fluffy interior. Perfect for snacking, sandwiches, or serving alongside soups and dips, this recipe is easy to make at home and customizable to various flavor preferences.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 rolls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-110°F)
Baking Soda Bath
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
Topping
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
- Activate the Yeast: Dissolve the granulated sugar in warm water (105-110°F), then sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy to confirm the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually stir in the yeast mixture until a rough dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing gluten for a chewy texture.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
- Shape the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and divide into evenly sized pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, then gently flatten and pinch seams closed to form rolls.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Carefully drop each roll into the simmering water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet to create the characteristic pretzel crust.
- Add Toppings and Bake: Brush each roll with melted butter and sprinkle coarse sea salt on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving; best enjoyed warm with a crunchy crust and soft interior.
Notes
- Use water at 105-110°F to activate yeast without killing it.
- Knead thoroughly to develop gluten for a chewy texture.
- Boil the rolls briefly in baking soda water to achieve the signature crust and color.
- Use baking soda in the boiling bath, not baking powder, for authentic pretzel results.
- Brush rolls with melted butter immediately after baking for added flavor and moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: soft pretzel rolls, pretzel rolls, homemade pretzel, chewy crust, baking, snack, sandwich roll