Homemade Pretzel Bread Recipe

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread swirling through your kitchen—now make it irresistible with that signature pretzel crust! Homemade Pretzel Bread is the ultimate comfort bake: golden, chewy, salty, and so delightfully soft inside. Whether you shape it into loaves or rolls, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a crave-worthy treat that never lasts long at my house.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This bread comes together with humble, easy-to-find ingredients—every one has a special job, from making the dough rise tall and fluffy to giving that signature pretzel flavor and glossy finish. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Rapid Yeast: Gets the dough rising quickly for that pillowy interior. Instant or active dry yeast both work—just be sure to proof it until it’s nice and foamy.
• Warm Water or Whey: Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough. Using leftover whey (from cheese-making) adds extra protein and depth, but plain water is perfect, too.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle hint of sweetness to balance the salty crust and helps the yeast work its magic.
• Milk: Makes the crumb a little softer and the loaf extra tender.
• Butter (melted): For rich flavor and a seriously soft crumb, plus a heavenly finish brushed on top.
• Salt: A flavor essential inside and out—don’t skip it!
• All Purpose Flour: Creates the structure you need while keeping the bread fluffy (no specialty flours required).
• Baking Soda (for the bath): The secret to that deep brown, glossy crust—you’ll briefly poach the shaped dough before baking.
• Coarse Salt: Big flakes or crystals give that classic pretzel finish (feel free to use pretzel salt or even flaky sea salt).

Variations

Homemade Pretzel Bread loves a twist—literally and figuratively! You can swap, add, or adjust these ingredients to match your cravings, dietary needs, or whatever you have in the pantry.

• Cheesy Pretzel Bread: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or gouda over the loaves before baking for a crispy, melty top.
• Whole Wheat Version: Swap up to half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat to add a little nuttiness and extra fiber.
• Sweet Pretzel Rolls: Brush the finished rolls with extra butter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar for a dessert pretzel that’s completely irresistible.
• Vegan Pretzel Bread: Replace butter with plant-based margarine and use non-dairy milk for a 100% vegan loaf (it’s still just as addictive!).

How to Make Homemade Pretzel Bread

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by combining the rapid yeast, warm water (or whey), and brown sugar in your mixer bowl. Give it a quick stir, then let it sit undisturbed for about 5 minutes. You’ll see it turn foamy and bubbly—that’s the yeast waking up and getting ready to give your bread a gorgeous rise!

Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough

Melt the butter and stir in the milk. Add this mixture to the foamy yeast along with the flour mixed with salt. Using your dough hook (or your hands), knead everything together for around 5 minutes until you have a smooth, still slightly tacky dough. Don’t worry if it sticks a little—that’s what keeps the crumb ultra-soft!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Lightly oil a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover with a damp cloth and set in a warm, draft-free spot (the oven with just the light on is perfect!). Let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour. This is where the bread develops extra flavor and that irresistible airy texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

While your dough rises, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Carefully add the baking soda, one tablespoon at a time, to avoid a bubbling volcano! The bath is non-negotiable for that iconic pretzel crust—don’t skip it.

Step 5: Shape and Poach the Dough

Turn your risen dough out onto the counter. You can divide and shape it into two rustic loaves or eight rolls. Once shaped, use a slotted spatula to gently lower each piece into the simmering baking soda bath—60–90 seconds per side for loaves, about 30 seconds per side for rolls. This step is the secret to the incredible flavor, shiny crust, and deep brown color!

Step 6: Score, Salt, and Bake

Remove the dough from the water, drain well, and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make a few deep slashes on top—either an “X” or diagonals—then sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Bake in a 400°F oven for 23–25 minutes (loaves) or 18–20 minutes (rolls), until beautifully bronzed.

Step 7: Butter and Cool

As soon as your bread comes out of the oven, brush it with more melted butter to help it stay SOFT and glossy. Transfer the Homemade Pretzel Bread to a cooling rack—you’ll want to let it cool fully, but I’ll be honest, it’s hard to resist tearing in while it’s still warm!

How to Serve Homemade Pretzel Bread

Garnishes

A finishing brush of melted butter is non-negotiable—it makes the crust shiny and keeps the bread soft. A generous sprinkle of coarse or pretzel salt right before baking brings that authentic pretzel shop vibe. If you’re feeling fancy, try scattering on some sesame or poppy seeds for a little extra crunch.

Side Dishes

This bread is the ultimate companion for cozy soups and hearty stews—think classic cheddar broccoli or a rich beef chili. It’s equally at home alongside a big salad, or even as the showstopper on your cheese and charcuterie board. And of course, nothing beats a slice of homemade pretzel bread alongside a cold beer and spicy mustard for dipping!

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your loaves into thick pieces for a stunning sandwich base, or turn the rolls into sliders for your next party. Get playful and hollow out a loaf to make a bread bowl for your favorite dips or creamy soups. Or serve mini rolls fresh from the oven in a lined bread basket, with a trio of mustards and dips for a DIY pretzel tasting at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover homemade pretzel bread in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have a little extra melted butter, brushing the cut sides before wrapping keeps everything perfectly moist.

Freezing

Pretzel bread freezes beautifully! Wrap cooled loaves or rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their fresh-baked texture and flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To reignite that just-baked magic, gently reheat individual slices or rolls in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes. For extra indulgence, brush with a bit more melted butter before warming. Microwaving works in a pinch too (20–30 seconds), but oven reheating keeps that crust satisfyingly chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Homemade Pretzel Bread is the kind of project that rewards each step with intoxicating smells and, ultimately, that first dreamy bite. Whether you’re a bread-baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe pulls you right in with its simplicity and delivers bakery-level results every time. Can’t wait for you to experience that first salty, buttery, pretzel-perfect slice—let me know how it goes and what twist you try!

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