Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1¼ cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
For the Baking Soda Bath
- 8 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
For Topping
- Coarse salt
- Melted butter (optional)
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sourdough starter, melted butter, and brown sugar. Stir until mixed well.
Add the bread flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour.
Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest.
Step 2: First Rise
Let the dough rise at room temperature for 4–6 hours or until it becomes puffy and slightly doubled in size. Since sourdough rises slower than regular yeast dough, patience is important.
For extra flavor, you can refrigerate the dough overnight after the first rise.
Step 3: Divide the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 8 equal pieces for medium pretzels.
Roll each piece into a long rope about 20–24 inches long.
Step 4: Shape the Pretzels
Take one rope and form it into a large “U” shape. Twist the ends together twice, then fold them down toward the bottom of the pretzel shape. Press gently to seal.
Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath
In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a gentle boil. Carefully add the baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so add it slowly.
The baking soda bath gives pretzels their classic chewy crust and deep golden color.
Step 6: Dip the Pretzels
Carefully place each pretzel into the baking soda bath for about 20–30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place onto a parchment-lined baking tray.
Sprinkle coarse salt over the top while still damp.
Step 7: Score and Bake
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Use a sharp knife to make a small slash on the thickest part of each pretzel. This helps them expand evenly while baking.
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the pretzels turn deep golden brown.
Step 8: Add Butter and Serve
Brush the warm pretzels with melted butter for extra flavor and shine.
Serve warm with:
- Cheese sauce
- Mustard
- Honey butter
- Cinnamon sugar
These sourdough pretzels are soft, chewy, golden, and packed with delicious homemade flavor.
