Ingredients
Method
- Activate Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine warm water, yeast, and 3 tbsp sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix Dough: Add melted butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms, then increase speed to medium-low and knead for 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl but still be slightly tacky. If it sticks too much, add flour 1 tbsp at a time.
- First Rise: Lightly grease a clean bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place dough inside, turning once to coat. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size. Do not rush this step; proper rising ensures the soft texture.
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Prepare your boiling station: bring 6 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Whisk carefully until dissolved.
- Shape Pretzels: Punch down the risen dough gently. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 20–24 inches long. Form into classic pretzel shapes (or simple knots). Place on prepared baking sheets.
- Second Rise: Cover shaped pretzels loosely with oiled plastic wrap and let rise for 15 minutes while the water heats up. They should look puffy but not double in size again.
- Boil: Carefully lower pretzels into the boiling baking soda water, one or two at a time. Boil for 30 seconds on each side (total 60 seconds). Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on baking sheets. Note: This step gives pretzels their signature dark crust and chew.
- Egg Wash & Salt: Whisk the egg with 1 tbsp water. Brush each pretzel generously. Sprinkle immediately with coarse sea salt while still wet.
- Bake: Bake for 12–15 minutes until deeply golden brown. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly.
- Make Caramel Dip: While pretzels bake, combine heavy cream, brown sugar, and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture comes to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon (approx. 220°F/104°C internal temperature). Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract and optional flaky salt. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
I keep these in my regular rotation because they look impressive but require minimal active time once you master the boil. They freeze beautifully before baking, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings or just satisfying a late-night craving without the fuss of ordering takeout. The texture is chewy and substantial, holding up well against thick dips.