Bretzels Anneau de Fête (Printable Version)

Celebrate with traditional German pretzel rings, golden baked and sprinkled with coarse salt.

# What You Need:

→ Dough

01 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
03 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
05 - 1 tablespoon softened butter
06 - 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water

→ Lye Bath

07 - 4 cups water
08 - 3 tablespoons baking soda

→ Topping

09 - 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt

# How to Make It:

01 - Dissolve yeast and sugar in lukewarm water, then let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add flour, salt, and butter to yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.
03 - Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
04 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and allow to rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
05 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
06 - Punch down dough, divide into 8 equal portions, roll each into a 16-inch rope, and shape into rings, sealing the ends.
07 - Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan, then carefully add baking soda (beware of bubbling).
08 - Using a slotted spoon, dip each ring into the simmering solution for 30 seconds and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
09 - Sprinkle each pretzel ring evenly with coarse sea salt.
10 - Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until deeply golden brown.
11 - Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool slightly before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Celebratory ring shape perfect for festive occasions
  • Classic German flavor with authentic lye bath technique
02 -
  • For a glossy authentic finish food-grade lye may be used in place of baking soda (handle with care)
  • Serve with sweet mustard cheese dips or sliced sausages
03 -
  • Ensure dough is kneaded until elastic for best texture
  • Use a slotted spoon to dip and remove pretzels carefully from bath
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