Oktoberfest Pretzels (Germany)

🕒 Prep: 1 hour
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Welcome to a slice of Germany in your kitchen! These Oktoberfest Pretzels are the perfect way to celebrate the season with a touch of authentic Bavarian flair. With their golden crust and soft, chewy center, they're an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients for Oktoberfest Pretzels (Germany)

The foundation of these pretzels is all-purpose flour, which gives them their structure and chewiness. Active dry yeast is crucial for making the dough rise and giving the pretzels their airy texture. A touch of salt balances the flavors, while sugar helps activate the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness. Warm water is used to dissolve the yeast, making sure it activates properly. Baking soda is the secret to that iconic pretzel crust, achieved by boiling the dough before baking. Finally, a beaten egg yolk adds shine and helps the coarse sea salt stick to the pretzels.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a more intense flavor, try using beer instead of water in the dough.
  • If your dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour until it’s manageable.
  • The baking soda bath is key to that signature crust, so don't skip it!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pretzels warm with a hearty mustard, cheese dip, or even a sweet honey butter for a delightful contrast. They're also a fantastic pairing with a cold, crisp lager or a warm apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the pretzels?
Yes, after baking, allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the freezer. Reheat them in the oven before serving.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the dough, let it rise, and then store it in the refrigerator overnight. Shape and bake the next day.

Oktoberfest Pretzels (Germany) Recipe Walkthrough

Start by getting a large mixing bowl and combining the dry ingredients: 4 cups of flour, 1 packet of yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix them together until they're well distributed. Next, gradually pour in 1 1/4 cups of warm water, stirring as you go, until a dough begins to form.

Flour a clean surface and knead the dough for about 8 minutes. This is a great time to let any stress melt away—just enjoy the rhythmic motion. Once the dough is smooth and elastic, place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour.

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. To shape, form a U, twist the ends, and press them down to create that classic pretzel shape.

Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on your prepared baking sheets.

Brush each pretzel with a mixture of 1 beaten egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water. Sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt and bake for 12-15 minutes until they're a deep golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic taste: Just like the ones you'd find at a German biergarten.
  • Fun to make: The whole family can get involved in shaping pretzels.
  • Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
  • Perfect for parties: A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with your favorite dips.

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/4 cups warm water
10 cups water
2/3 cup baking soda
1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 450°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8 pieces and roll each into a 24-inch rope.
7. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape and twisting the ends.
8. Bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
9. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds, then place on prepared baking sheets.
10. Brush each pretzel with egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
11. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until deep golden brown.
12. Allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!