If you have ever craved that irresistible, warm, and chewy treat from your favorite bakery or fair, then this Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s perfectly golden, soft on the inside with just the right amount of salt on the outside, and absolutely delightful to make at home. What’s truly amazing about this recipe is how approachable it is—even if you’ve never made pretzels before, you’ll find the process fun and straightforward. Trust me, once you’ve tried this Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a group of eight uncooked pretzels made from light beige dough arranged on a white marbled surface. Each pretzel has a thick loop with one end of the dough twisted over and tucked under the other, forming the classic pretzel shape. The texture of the dough looks smooth and slightly soft, with some small cracks at the twists and bends. The pretzels are evenly spaced but not perfectly aligned, covering most of the image area. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet essential to bring out the perfect flavor, texture, and color that make soft pretzels so addictive. Each one plays a special role—from the softness of the dough to the beautiful golden crust you get after baking.

Bread flour (or all-purpose flour): Gives the pretzels their chewy, sturdy texture.
Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory notes.
Melted unsalted butter (or olive oil): Adds richness and tenderness to the dough.
Instant yeast (or active dry yeast): The magical ingredient that helps the dough rise and become airy.
Warm water (110ºF): Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
Salt: Provides essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors.
Water for boiling: Used with baking soda to give the pretzels their signature crust and chew.
Baking soda: Creates an alkaline bath that helps develop the pretzel’s classic brown color and unique texture.
Mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and yellow mustard: Blend to make a creamy, tangy dipping sauce that perfectly accompanies the soft pretzels.

How to Make Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by heating your water to 110º-115ºF—warm but not hot enough to kill the yeast. Mix the warm water with sugar and melted butter, then set it aside to combine those flavors. In your mixer bowl, add the flour and yeast, mixing briefly so the yeast distributes evenly. Pour in your water mixture as your mixer runs on low, then sprinkle in the salt before cranking the speed up for a good 6 minutes of kneading. Watch the dough texture closely—it should be tacky but not sticky, bouncing back when you poke it.

Step 2: Proof the Dough

Shape your dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, covering it tightly. Let it proof at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size. If using active dry yeast instead of instant, keep it covered for around 90 minutes. This step is so important because it develops the flavor and lightness that make soft pretzels so delightful.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzels

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions—using a kitchen scale helps for perfect size consistency! Roll each piece into a 22-inch long rope, moving to the next piece when the dough stretches too much; this resting prevents tearing. Then, shape each “snake” into the classic pretzel form by making a large “U,” twisting the ends twice, and folding them down to the base of the “U.” A dab of water acts like glue to keep everything in place while the dough rests again for 10 to 20 minutes.

Step 4: Boil in Baking Soda Water

Bring 8 cups of water with ¼ cup baking soda to a simmer. This alkaline bath preps the pretzels’ surface, helping them develop that perfect crust during baking. Gently dip each pretzel for 20 seconds, flipping halfway through, then lay them on parchment-lined trays dusted with corn flour to prevent sticking. This step is truly the secret to golden, chewy soft pretzels.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 425ºF. Before baking, sprinkle the pretzels with coarse salt, adding a savory punch and that signature look. Bake them for 15 to 20 minutes or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen when these come out of the oven signals the deliciousness waiting for you.

Step 6: Mix the Mustard Sauce

While the pretzels bake, mix together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and yellow mustard until smooth and creamy. This sauce pairs perfectly with the soft pretzels, offering a sweet and tangy contrast that will make your taste buds sing with joy.

How to Serve Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe

A close-up image shows a golden brown soft pretzel being held by a woman's hand as it dips into a small white bowl filled with creamy, light yellow cheese sauce. The pretzel has a clear knot shape with a crisp, caramelized texture and a sprinkle of coarse salt on top. In the background, a white plate holds several more pretzels, all similarly golden and textured, against a white marbled surface with soft natural light. The scene captures the rich, warm tones of the pretzels with smooth sauce dripping from the dipped piece. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkling coarse or flaky salt over the pretzels right after they come out of the boiling water and before baking gives them their classic salty finish. For extra fun, you can dust some pretzel favorites like sesame seeds or poppy seeds for a crunchy texture and beautiful appearance. Feel free to experiment with flavored salts too, like garlic or smoked paprika salt!

Side Dishes

Soft pretzels shine brightest when paired with a variety of dips and sides. Aside from the mustard sauce in the recipe, try offering cheese sauce, beer cheese dip, or even a sweet cream cheese spread. A fresh salad or crunchy pickles also make brilliant companions that balance out the richness of the pretzels.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving these soft pretzels with small individual dipping bowls of sauce turns your snack into a fun interactive experience for everyone. You can also slice them into bite-sized pieces for a party platter or even sandwich some thin deli meats and cheese inside warm pretzels for an unexpected twist. Trust me, the presentation makes the Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers—which is rare!—store your soft pretzels in an airtight container or ziplock bag at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for about 1 to 2 days. For the best texture, avoid refrigerating as it tends to dry the pretzels out.

Freezing

Soft pretzels freeze beautifully. Wrap each pretzel tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 2 months, making this Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe perfect for prepping ahead for busy days or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover pretzels back to life, reheat in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 8 to 10 minutes. This method restores their crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them rubbery.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While bread flour gives a chewier texture due to its higher protein content, all-purpose flour works just fine and still makes wonderfully soft pretzels. Just be mindful that the texture might be a touch less chewy but still delicious.

What is the purpose of the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath raises the pH on the surface of the dough, which creates the pretzel’s signature dark brown, glossy crust and distinctive flavor once baked. Skipping this step will result in a more bread-like texture and less color.

Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can! Mix and knead the dough by hand on a clean surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It’s a bit more effort but very doable and connects you more with the dough.

How do I know when the dough has proofed enough?

The dough is ready when it has doubled in size and springs back slowly when poked gently with your finger. You can also perform the windowpane test by stretching a small piece of dough thin enough to see light through it without tearing, indicating proper gluten development.

Is the mustard dipping sauce necessary?

It’s not necessary but highly recommended! The creamy and tangy mustard sauce complements the soft pretzels beautifully. You can also serve with other dips or enjoy them plain if you prefer. This sauce just adds that extra layer of flavor that feels irresistible.

Final Thoughts

Making your own soft pretzels at home with this Easy Soft Pretzel Recipe is such a rewarding experience that brings pure joy to your kitchen and your taste buds. From the fun of shaping each twist to the amazing scent while baking, every moment is worth it. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into creating some of the best soft pretzels you’ve ever tasted. I promise this recipe will become a beloved staple that you’ll enjoy sharing with friends and family time and time again!