What gives the pretzels their glossy crust?

Dipping the shaped dough rings into a baking soda bath before baking creates a distinctive glossy and chewy crust.

Can I substitute baking soda for lye in the bath?

Yes, baking soda is a common alternative to food-grade lye, providing a similar crust effect while being safer to handle.

Roll each dough portion into a long rope about 40 cm, then press the ends together firmly to form a sealed ring.

Coarse sea salt is classic, but poppy or sesame seeds add flavor variety. Sweet mustard or cheese dips pair well when serving.

Let the dough rise covered for about 1 hour or until doubled in size to ensure a soft, elastic texture.

A festive take on classic German pretzels, shaped into celebratory rings and sprinkled with coarse salt. Perfect for parties or special occasions.

This recipe has become a favorite at our family gatherings because of its authentic taste and fun presentation.

Dough: 500 g all-purpose flour, 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast, 1 tsp sugar, 1 ½ tsp salt, 1 tbsp softened butter, 300 ml lukewarm water
Lye Bath (for authenticity see notes for alternatives): 1 liter water, 40 g baking soda (if not using food-grade lye)
Topping: 2 tbsp coarse sea salt

Step 1:: In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in the lukewarm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Step 2:: Add the flour, salt, and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
Step 3:: Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4:: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5:: Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 6:: Punch down dough and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a 40 cm rope, then shape into rings, pressing the ends together to seal.
Step 7:: In a large saucepan, bring 1 liter water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda (it will bubble).
Step 8:: Using a slotted spoon, dip each pretzel ring into the simmering bath for 30 seconds, then place on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 9:: Sprinkle each with coarse salt.
Step 10:: Bake for 12 15 minutes until deep golden brown.
Step 11:: Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Making these Bretzels has brought many joyful moments at family celebrations, especially when everyone joins in shaping the pretzel rings.

Large mixing bowl saucepan slotted spoon baking sheet parchment paper wire rack

Contains gluten (wheat) and dairy (butter) May contain traces of nuts or soy depending on flour brand double-check labels if allergies are a concern

Per ring: Calories 210 Total Fat 2.5 g Carbohydrates 41 g Protein 6 g

Enjoy your homemade Bretzels warm for the best taste and texture.

→ What gives the pretzels their glossy crust?: Dipping the shaped dough rings into a baking soda bath before baking creates a distinctive glossy and chewy crust.
→ Can I substitute baking soda for lye in the bath?: Yes, baking soda is a common alternative to food-grade lye, providing a similar crust effect while being safer to handle.
→ How do I shape the dough into rings?: Roll each dough portion into a long rope about 40 cm, then press the ends together firmly to form a sealed ring.
→ What toppings complement these pretzels?: Coarse sea salt is classic, but poppy or sesame seeds add flavor variety. Sweet mustard or cheese dips pair well when serving.
→ How long should the dough rise before shaping?: Let the dough rise covered for about 1 hour or until doubled in size to ensure a soft, elastic texture.