Are you craving the irresistible salty, chewy goodness of a warm pretzel but intimidated by yeast-based recipes? Fear not! This no-yeast soft pretzel recipe delivers all the flavor and texture you love, without the fuss of proofing and rising. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes that yield delicious results, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a satisfying snack. This homemade cooking project is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and seasoned home cooks looking for a fun and delicious new twist on a classic. Get ready to enjoy these unbelievably soft and flavorful pretzels!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Coarse sea salt, for topping
- Melted butter, for brushing (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, baking soda, and salt. Stir until the baking soda and salt are completely dissolved.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Add the flour, melted butter, and sugar to the wet ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: Rest the Dough
Form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Shape the Pretzels
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch long rope. Form each rope into a pretzel shape by making a U-shape, crossing the ends, and pressing them onto the bottom of the U.
Step 6: Boil the Pretzels
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the pretzels, 2-3 at a time, and boil for 30 seconds per side. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 7: Bake and Season
Sprinkle the pretzels generously with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. For extra flavor and softness, brush them with melted butter immediately after baking.
Tips for Perfect Pretzels:
- Water Temperature: Make sure your water is the correct temperature (105-115°F) to activate the baking soda.
- Don't Overwork the Dough: Overkneading can result in tough pretzels.
- Boiling is Key: Boiling the pretzels gives them their characteristic chewy texture.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your pretzels while they bake, as ovens can vary.
Variations:
- Sweet Pretzels: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar instead of coarse salt.
- Garlic Pretzels: Add garlic powder to the dough or sprinkle with garlic salt after baking.
- Everything Bagel Pretzels: Use everything bagel seasoning instead of coarse salt.
Nutritional Information (per pretzel, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
These no-yeast pretzels are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They're quick, easy, and incredibly delicious – the perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!