Sourdough Pretzel Bread

There’s something so comforting about freshly baked bread, especially when it’s infused with the rich, unmistakable flavor of pretzels. This recipe for soft pretzel bread combines the best of both worlds: the soft, chewy texture of bread with the irresistible flavor of classic pretzels. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a warm loaf with a slightly crispy crust and a soft, pillowy interior.

The idea to make this pretzel bread came to me during a casual chat with a friend who is a huge pretzel enthusiast. She lamented how much she missed the smell of freshly baked pretzels in her grandmother’s kitchen and wished she could capture that nostalgic aroma in a loaf of bread. Inspired by her story, I decided to experiment and bring that comforting, homely feeling back, but with a twist!

Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this delightful bread that’s sure to fill your home with warmth and happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 375 grams of bread flour
• 50 grams of sourdough yeast
• 3 grams of instant yeast
• 20 grams of sugar
• 10 grams of honey
• 3.5 grams of malt powder (optional)
• 6 grams of salt
• 1 egg
• 160-175 grams of milk (add gradually)
• 32 grams of olive oil

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 1 cup of boiling water
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg + a splash of water

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Pretzel Bread

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing all the dry ingredients—bread flour, sourdough yeast, instant yeast, sugar, salt, and malt powder (if using)—in a large bowl. Gradually add the milk, starting with 160 grams and adding more if needed, until the mixture forms a dough. Crack in the egg and knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes firm and starts to come together.

2. Knead to Perfection

Once the dough has formed, add the olive oil and continue kneading. The dough will become softer and more elastic. Knead until it reaches the “windowpane” stage, where it can be stretched thin without tearing. This process usually takes another 5-10 minutes.

3. First Rise

Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. This should take about 1-2 hours, depending on the temperature of your kitchen.

4. Shape the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and divide it into three equal parts. Shape each part into a tight ball and set aside.

5. Baking Soda Bath

Prepare a baking soda bath by mixing 1 cup of boiling water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda in a shallow dish. Carefully dip each dough ball into the baking soda solution. This step gives the bread its characteristic pretzel flavor and a slightly chewy crust.

6. Arrange and Final Rise

Place the dipped dough balls into a roasting tin, spacing them evenly. Cover the tin with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again until it reaches the edges of the tin. This second rise is crucial for developing the bread’s soft and airy texture.

7. Bake the Pretzel Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the tops of the dough balls with the egg wash to give them a beautiful, golden-brown finish. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

This soft pretzel bread is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Classic Sandwich: Slice the bread and use it for your favorite sandwiches. Its soft texture and slight chewiness make it perfect for holding hearty fillings.
• Toast with Butter: For a simple treat, toast slices of this bread and spread with a generous layer of butter. Add a sprinkle of sea salt for a deliciously savory snack.
• Dipping Delight: Serve chunks of this bread alongside a warm cheese dip or marinara sauce for an appetizer that will impress your guests.

Pro Tips for the Best Pretzel Bread

• Check Your Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. If the dough doesn’t rise as expected, the yeast might be old or expired.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: This step is essential for achieving that classic pretzel flavor and texture.
• Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. You want a deep golden-brown crust without burning the bottom.

Making this soft pretzel bread is not only a delightful baking project but also a way to bring a touch of pretzel magic into your home. The result is a soft, chewy loaf with an irresistible flavor that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a cozy bakery. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of homemade pretzel bread! And if you want to take your pretzel baking skills to the next level, why not try making an easy pretzel bite recipe as well? With just a few simple ingredients and some basic baking techniques, you can create bite-sized pieces of pretzel goodness that are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. So gather up your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade pretzels in two different forms!