Homemade Pretzel Buns

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Homemade Pretzel Buns.

1. Step 1

   Start by sprinkling the active dry yeast and a teaspoon of sugar over half a cup of warm water in a small bowl. Make sure the water is no hotter than 100°F (40°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast softens and forms a creamy foam on top. This is your yeast activation moment!

2. Step 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, vegetable shortening, eggs, vegetable oil, 3 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Blend these ingredients together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Now, gradually mix in the remaining 3 cups of flour by hand, adding half a cup at a time and mixing well after each addition. Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Don’t worry if it feels a bit sticky; that’s perfectly normal!

3. Step 3

   Lightly oil a large bowl and place your kneaded dough inside, turning it to coat with the oil. Cover the bowl with a light cloth and let it rise in a warm spot (ideally between 80°F to 95°F or 27°C to 35°C) until it doubles in size, which should take about an hour. Once it’s risen, uncover the dough and give it a good punch to release the air.

4. Step 4

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the buns. Take portions of the dough, about the size of a baseball, and roll them into long 'snakes' about 6 inches in length. For a fun twist, spiral each snake to create some texture on top of your buns. Set these aside on a baking sheet.

5. Step 5

   In a separate bowl, mix the baking soda with 4 cups of hot water. You don’t need to dissolve the baking soda completely; just give it a good stir. Dip each formed bun into this baking soda solution before placing it back on the baking sheet. This step is crucial for that classic pretzel flavor and color!

6. Step 6

   Once all the buns are dipped, brush each one with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt to taste. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and deliciously aromatic. When they’re done, let them cool on a wire rack or in a brown paper bag to keep them soft.