Authentic Bavarian Pretzels

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Authentic Bavarian Pretzels.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering all your ingredients to create a seamless baking experience.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar with warm water, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

3. Step 3

   Next, sprinkle the yeast over this mixture and let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing it to become frothy and lively.

4. Step 4

   Once your yeast is ready, add in the melted butter and lager-style beer, whisking everything together until it’s well blended.

5. Step 5

   Gradually incorporate the bread flour and kosher salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

6. Step 6

   Now, it’s time to let your dough rise! Grease a bowl with a teaspoon of softened butter, then place your dough inside.

7. Step 7

   Cover it up and let it rise until it doubles in size, which will take around 8 hours or you can let it rise overnight for convenience.

8. Step 8

   When the dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down and knead it for about a minute until it’s smooth.

9. Step 9

   Return it to the bowl, cover it again, and let it rise for another 2 to 3 hours until it’s nearly doubled in size.

10. Step 10

    While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

11. Step 11

    Place baking soda in an oven-safe dish and let it heat in the oven for an hour.

12. Step 12

    Once it’s done, allow it to cool slightly, then whisk it into a shallow bowl with 2 1/2 cups of hot water until it’s fully dissolved.

13. Step 13

    If needed, strain the mixture and set it aside for later.

14. Step 14

    After the second rise, punch down the dough once more and divide it into 8 equal portions.

15. Step 15

    Roll each piece into a ball and let them rest for about 5 minutes.

16. Step 16

    To shape your pretzels, take each ball and roll it into a sausage shape, then flatten it into a rectangle.

17. Step 17

    Fold the outer third into the center and press down, then repeat this with the edge closest to you.

18. Step 18

    Now, roll the dough into a rope about 15 to 18 inches long, making sure the center is thicker than the ends.

19. Step 19

    Cross the ends over each other and fold them back to create that classic pretzel shape.

20. Step 20

    Repeat this process with the remaining dough.

21. Step 21

    For the next step, put on some thin, food-safe gloves and dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 20 to 30 seconds, splashing the liquid over the top for an even coating.

22. Step 22

    Transfer the pretzels to a parchment-lined baking sheet that you’ve greased with cooking spray, and sprinkle them generously with flaked sea salt.

23. Step 23

    Let them rise for another 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).

24. Step 24

    Before baking, use a sharp knife to make a slash across the belly of each pretzel, adding any additional cuts if you like.

25. Step 25

    Bake your pretzels in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown.

26. Step 26

    Once they’re done, transfer them to a cooling rack and let them cool for 5 to 10 minutes.

27. Step 27

    Now, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Serve your warm, homemade Bavarian pretzels and savor every delicious bite.

28. Step 28

    Happy baking!.