Name: Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons); 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C); 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 cups water; 2 tablespoons baking soda; 3 tablespoons butter, melted; 1 tablespoon coarse salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 11 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful snack that combines that irresistible chew with a golden crust, this Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe is just the ticket. These pretzel knots are perfectly tender on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior, making them ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying alongside your favorite dips. Whether you’re craving a cozy treat for game night or an impressive homemade appetizer, this recipe brings together simple ingredients and an easy technique that will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A silver metal bowl holds a light beige dough that looks soft and sticky, filling about half of the bowl. The dough has a smooth texture with some folds and thick parts on top. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, next to a white cloth with orange stripes and light wooden cooking tools. The lighting is natural and bright, showing the dough's texture clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To create these soft, buttery pretzel knots, you just need a handful of everyday pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a vital role—from the yeast that makes the dough rise beautifully, to the baking soda bath that gives the pretzels their signature chewy crust and rich, deep color.

Yeast: Activates the dough and ensures it rises to light, fluffy perfection.
Warm water: Wakes up the yeast and helps dissolve sugar for optimal fermentation.
Flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and softness.
Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of subtle sweetness.
Salt: Balances flavor and enhances the dough’s taste.
Water (for boiling): Prepares the baking soda bath for pretzel dipping.
Baking soda: Creates the traditional pretzel crust by reacting in hot water.
Butter, melted: Adds rich flavor and a delicate sheen when brushed on before baking.
Coarse salt: Sprinkled for that classic salty crunch on top.

How to Make Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by combining the yeast with warm water in the bowl of your stand mixer. Let it sit until bubbles appear on the surface, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to make magic happen. This step is essential for a light, airy texture in your pretzel knots.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough

Add flour, sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture and begin beating with your dough hook on low. Once the flour starts to come together, increase to medium speed and knead for five minutes. This develops gluten, which gives the dough its characteristic chew and elasticity.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Cover your bowl with a clean towel and place it somewhere warm to rest for about an hour. The dough should double in size, becoming puffy and soft—a sure sign it’s ready for shaping.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzel Knots

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a long log. Cut it into strips, then cut each strip in half. Roll each piece into a thin rope and twist it into a knot shape. This step is fun and a little like tying a culinary bow—your unique signature on each pretzel.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Bring water to a boil in a pot and stir in the baking soda until fully dissolved. Carefully dip each knot into this hot bath—this crucial step promotes the classic pretzel crust and rich golden color when baked.

Step 6: Add Butter and Salt, Then Bake

Drain the knots on a paper towel-lined plate, then transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each one generously with melted butter and sprinkle coarse salt on top. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.

How to Serve Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe

Two soft pretzels lie on a light brown wooden board placed on a white marbled surface. Each pretzel has a golden-brown crust with a slightly shiny texture and large grains of salt sprinkled on top. The pretzels have a twisted knot shape that is thick in certain areas and thinner in others, showing a soft and chewy interior. A red and white checkered cloth is casually draped in the background, adding a cozy touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of coarse salt works wonders, but consider adding garlic powder or a dusting of Parmesan cheese for even more flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be finely chopped and sprinkled just before serving to add a fragrant, savory touch that elevates these pretzel knots to something truly special.

Side Dishes

Soft pretzel knots pair beautifully with a variety of dips—think sharp cheddar cheese sauce, spicy mustard, or creamy ranch dressing. For a heartier snack, serve alongside a bowl of soup or chili to soak up every bit of flavor. The salty chew of these knots complements rich, comforting dishes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe into a party star by arranging them in a basket lined with a colorful cloth or serving them on a wooden board surrounded by ramekins of dipping sauces. For a fun twist, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or brush with honey butter for a sweet-savory delight that will wow any crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pretzel knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the exterior soft yet slightly crisp, avoid refrigerating as that can dry out the dough.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these pretzel knots later, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze beautifully for up to one month, making it easy to have a quick snack on demand.

Reheating

To bring your frozen or leftover pretzel knots back to life, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8–10 minutes. This warms them through while restoring that soft inside and golden crust we all love. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make this dough without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It may take a bit more muscle, but the process and results will still be fantastic.

Why do pretzels need a baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is crucial because it reacts with the dough’s surface during baking, creating the iconic chewy crust and deep golden-brown color that defines classic pretzels.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes! Bread flour has a higher protein content, which can make your pretzels a bit chewier. It’s a great option if you love that perfect bite in each knot.

How do I keep my pretzel knots soft the next day?

To keep pretzels soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If they do get a bit stale, a quick reheat in the oven will help revive their softness.

What are some good dipping sauces for Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe?

Classic choices include honey mustard, cheese sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. For a fun twist, try a sweet cream cheese dip or warm marinara for dunking.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Soft Pretzel Knots Recipe, it’s hard to go back to store-bought snacks. The aroma alone while baking will draw everyone into the kitchen, and the combination of buttery, salty, soft, and chewy will keep them coming back for more. Give this recipe a try—you’ll not only impress yourself but also delight friends and family with a homemade treat that’s pure comfort in every bite.