These homemade pretzels made in a bread machine are soft, chewy, and perfect for snacking. With a simple dough recipe, you can enjoy fresh pretzels right from your kitchen.
The process is straightforward, and you can customize the toppings to your liking, whether you prefer classic salt, cheese, or even cinnamon sugar.
Creating the Perfect Pretzel Dough
To start your pretzel-making journey, the dough is the foundation of your delicious snack. Using a bread machine simplifies the process significantly.
Begin by adding warm water, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, bread flour, and active dry yeast into the machine in the specified order. This method ensures that the yeast activates properly, leading to a fluffy and chewy texture.
Once the dough cycle is complete, you’ll have a soft and elastic dough ready for shaping. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for the pretzel’s unique characteristics.
Shaping Your Pretzels
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape your pretzels. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into eight equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist it into the classic pretzel shape. This is where you can get creative; practice makes perfect, and each pretzel can have its own personality!
Once shaped, let them rest for a few minutes to rise slightly before boiling. This step enhances their texture and flavor.
Boiling for Texture
The boiling process is what gives pretzels their signature chewy crust. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil and add baking soda.
Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. This brief boil helps to create a beautiful golden-brown exterior once baked.
After boiling, remove the pretzels with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This step is essential for achieving that perfect crust.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Before baking, brush each pretzel with a beaten egg wash. This not only gives them a shiny appearance but also helps the coarse sea salt adhere.
Sprinkle the pretzels generously with sea salt, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. The salt contrasts beautifully with the soft dough, creating a delightful snacking experience.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they transform into golden-brown delights.
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving. This waiting period enhances the flavors and makes them even more enjoyable.
Serving Suggestions
These pretzels are best enjoyed warm, paired with a side of mustard for dipping. The tangy mustard complements the salty pretzel perfectly.
Feel free to experiment with toppings as well. Cheese, cinnamon sugar, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate your pretzel game.
Gather friends and family around for a delightful snack that’s sure to impress. Homemade pretzels bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any gathering.
Easy Bread Machine Pretzels Recipe
This recipe yields delicious pretzels that are boiled briefly before baking, giving them their characteristic texture and flavor. The total time for preparation and baking is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a quick and enjoyable treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In the bread machine pan, add warm water, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, bread flour, and yeast in that order. Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Shape the Pretzels: Once the dough cycle is complete, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and shape it into a pretzel.
- Boil the Pretzels: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 8 pretzels
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g