Homemade Pretzels – Soft Pretzels Topped with Sesame and Poppy Seeds
These Homemade Pretzels are soft, chewy, and golden with a satisfying crunch from sesame and poppy seed toppings. Simple to make and full of bakery-style flavor, this classic snack recipe delivers perfect results every time.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 soft pretzels
- Category: Snack, Bread
- Method: Baking, Boiling
- Cuisine: American, German-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Flour
- Active dry yeast
- Warm water
- Sugar
- Salt
- Baking soda (for boiling)
- Egg (for egg wash)
- Sesame seeds
- Poppy seeds
- Sea salt flakes
Instructions
- Combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and warm water until a sticky dough forms. Knead until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
- Divide dough into 12 pieces. Roll into long ropes and twist into pretzel shapes.
- Let pretzels rest for 10–15 minutes while preparing the baking soda bath.
- Boil each pretzel in baking soda water for 25–30 seconds. Let drain.
- Place on baking sheets, brush with egg wash, and top with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and sea salt. Bake at 425°F (220°C) until deep golden, about 15 minutes.
Notes
- Top with cheese, cinnamon sugar, or herbs for variation.
- Stuff with cheese or ham for a savory twist.
- For classic pretzels, just use sea salt.
- Best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
