Description
Authentic German pretzel buns with a soft fluffy interior and chewy golden crust, made with a classic baking soda bath for traditional pretzel flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 3 3/5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon softened butter
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 6 cups water
- 2 tablespoons coarse salt
- Optional: sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or sunflower seeds
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine lukewarm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add softened butter and the yeast mixture, then knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and shape into smooth balls.
- Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring 6 cups of water to a gentle boil and carefully stir in the baking soda.
- Place each dough ball into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
- Score a deep X on top of each bun with a sharp knife.
- Sprinkle with coarse salt or desired toppings.
- Bake for 25 minutes until deeply golden brown and shiny.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before serving warm.
Notes
- The baking soda bath creates the signature pretzel flavor and crust.
- If the yeast does not foam, it may be expired or the water temperature may be incorrect.
- Brush warm buns with melted butter for extra flavor.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze cooled buns for up to 3 months.
- Different toppings like sesame or poppy seeds can be used for variety.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
