Introduction
Soft pretzel rolls are a delightful twist on the classic pretzel, combining the same delicious flavor and chewy texture with the convenience of a roll. These pretzel rolls are perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or just as a tasty snack with a bit of mustard or cheese dip. They might seem like a gourmet treat, but they are surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating soft, golden-brown pretzel rolls with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Pretzel Bath:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
For the Topping:
- Coarse sea salt (or pretzel salt)
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (to mix with the egg)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Activate the yeast – In a small bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
Mix the dough – In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough begins to form.
Knead the dough – Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Let the dough rise – Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat all sides with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Pretzel Rolls
Preheat the oven – Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Divide the dough – Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball, rolling between your hands to form a smooth, round shape.
Prepare the pretzel bath – In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baking soda and stir to dissolve. The water will foam up, which is normal.
Boil the rolls – Using a slotted spoon or a skimmer, gently lower each dough ball into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Boil in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. This step helps to develop the pretzel texture and flavor. Remove the rolls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Bake the Pretzel Rolls
Apply egg wash – In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the pretzel rolls, ensuring an even coating.
Add salt – Sprinkle coarse sea salt or pretzel salt over the top of each roll.
Bake – Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the rolls are deep golden brown and have a crisp crust.
Cool – Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Pretzel Rolls
- Yeast – Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water is not too hot. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast; if it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate properly.
- Boiling – The baking soda bath is crucial for achieving the distinctive pretzel flavor and chewy texture. Make sure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the dough.
- Shaping – For uniform rolls, you can use a kitchen scale to measure each piece of dough or simply eyeball it. If you want a more traditional pretzel shape, you can roll out the dough and shape it into pretzels before boiling.
Nutritional Information (per roll)
- Calories: 150-180
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
These values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Storage and Serving
Storage – Pretzel rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the rolls. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating – To reheat, place the rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you can toast them lightly for a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Pretzel rolls are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways:
- Sandwiches – Slice them in half and use them for sandwiches or burgers.
- Dips – Serve with cheese dip, mustard, or any of your favorite dipping sauces.
- Soup – Pair with hearty soups and stews for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
Easy Soft Pretzel Rolls bring the delicious flavor and texture of traditional pretzels into a convenient roll form. With a simple dough recipe, a quick boiling process, and a crisp bake, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a casual meal or a special gathering, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results that follow!