Sourdough Soft Pretzels Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate sourdough soft pretzels, this recipe is a must-try! Made with a naturally fermented sourdough starter, these pretzels have a deep flavor, a chewy texture, and a beautifully golden crust. Whether you’re a sourdough enthusiast or just love homemade pretzels, this easy recipe will become your go-to healthy treat!

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Soft Pretzels

• Chewy & Soft Texture – Perfectly golden on the outside, pillowy and chewy on the inside.
• Naturally Fermented – Uses sourdough starter for added flavor and easier digestion.
• Better than Store-Bought – No preservatives, just pure homemade goodness!
• Customizable – Add toppings like coarse salt, cinnamon sugar, or garlic butter.

What Are Sourdough Soft Pretzels?

Sourdough soft pretzels are a delicious twist on the classic pretzel, using active sourdough starter instead of commercial yeast. The fermentation process enhances flavor, making these pretzels incredibly rich and complex compared to their traditional counterparts.

Ingredients for Sourdough Soft Pretzels

• All-purpose flour – The base for a chewy texture.
• Active sourdough starter – Provides natural leavening and depth of flavor.
• Warm water – Helps activate the dough.
• Butter – Adds richness and softness.
• Salt – Enhances taste and strengthens gluten.
• Baking soda bath – Creates the classic chewy exterior.
• Coarse salt – For that signature pretzel topping.

How to Make Sourdough Soft Pretzels

1. Prepare the Dough

Mix the flour, sourdough starter, warm water, butter, and salt in a bowl. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it ferment at room temperature for 4–6 hours, or overnight in the fridge.

2. Shape the Pretzels

Divide the dough into equal pieces, roll each into a rope, and shape into a classic pretzel twist.

3. Second Rise

Place shaped pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until slightly puffy.

4. Boil in Baking Soda Bath

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add baking soda. Quickly dip each pretzel in the bath for 30 seconds—this step creates the chewy, golden-brown crust.

5. Bake Until Golden

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the pretzels on a baking sheet. Brush pretzels with melted butter for that signature soft, glossy finish, then add coarse salt. I like to use Celtic Sea Salt! Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy them fresh!

Tips for the Best Sourdough Soft Pretzels

• Use an Active Sourdough Starter – This helps with fermentation and flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath – It’s essential for the classic pretzel texture and color.
• Brush with Butter – For extra flavor and softness.
• Salt– Use a healthy mineral salt. I like to use Celtic Sea salt.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try sesame seeds, cheese, or cinnamon sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Sourdough Discard?

Yes! If using sourdough discard, add ½ teaspoon of instant yeast and let the dough rise until doubled before shaping.

How Do I Store Sourdough Soft Pretzels?

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: Freeze pretzels for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes.

Recommended Tools for Making Sourdough Soft Pretzels

Make the perfect sourdough pretzels with these must-have tools:

1. Stand Mixer for Easy Kneading
2. Baking Sheet for Perfect Baking
3. Dough Scraper for Handling Dough
4. Coarse Pretzel Salt for Authentic Flavor

Final Thoughts

These homemade sourdough soft pretzels are an irresistible snack that combines the best of sourdough fermentation with classic pretzel texture. Whether you enjoy them plain, with mustard, or brushed with garlic butter, they are guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe and let me know how they turn out in the comments!

More Farmhouse Recipes!

Pin & Save for Later! 📌