Homemade Pretzel Bread (Pretzel Rolls)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Pretzel Bread, especially in roll form, brings together the chewy, salty exterior of a soft pretzel with the fluffy interior of fresh-baked bread. These rolls are perfect as sandwich buns, alongside soups, or served warm with butter. Their deep golden color and signature pretzel flavor make them a bakery-worthy treat right from your kitchen.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

bread flour
warm water
active dry yeast
brown sugar
salt
unsalted butter
baking soda (for boiling)
egg (for egg wash)
coarse sea salt (for topping)

directions

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix and knead until a soft dough forms.

Cover and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Divide the dough into equal portions and shape into rolls.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and slowly add baking soda.

Boil each roll for 30 seconds on each side, then transfer to the baking sheet.

Brush each roll with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 pretzel rolls.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Boiling and baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Add shredded cheese on top before baking for cheesy pretzel rolls.
Stuff with ham and cheese before shaping for a savory snack.
Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar instead of salt for a sweet version.
Use whole wheat flour for a slightly denser, nutty flavor.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

What gives pretzel rolls their unique flavor?
The baking soda bath creates the classic pretzel crust and flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated overnight before shaping and baking.

Why do I need to boil the dough?
Boiling in baking soda water is what gives pretzel rolls their chewy texture and dark crust.

Can I make this recipe without an egg wash?
Yes, though the rolls will be slightly less shiny and golden.

How do I keep the rolls from being too dense?
Make sure your yeast is active and let the dough rise properly.

Are pretzel rolls gluten-free?
Not with the standard recipe, but you can use gluten-free flour blends and adjust rising time.

Can I shape them into larger buns?
Yes, just increase the baking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

Do I need a stand mixer?
No, you can knead the dough by hand until smooth and elastic.

What type of salt is best for topping?
Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt works best for texture and flavor.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just ensure adequate space on your baking sheets.

Conclusion

Homemade Pretzel Rolls offer a bakery-style experience with rich flavor and a satisfyingly chewy crust. They’re versatile, crowd-pleasing, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you serve them plain, stuffed, or as a sandwich bun, these rolls are sure to become a staple in your baking rotation.

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