Pretz Recipe

Activate Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Mix Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms.

Knead Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Shape Pretzels

Once the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 24 inches) and shape it into a pretzel.

Prepare Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove and place on the prepared baking sheets.

Add Toppings

Brush each pretzel with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake Pretzels

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Make Roux

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until golden.

Add Milk

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Serve the soft pretzels warm with the cheese sauce on the side for dipping.