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Parmesan Soft Pretzels Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 106 reviews

These Parmesan Soft Pretzels are a delicious homemade snack featuring a soft and chewy texture infused with garlic and Italian seasoning. Coated with a flavorful garlic-Parmesan mixture and baked to a golden perfection, they make a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 package active dry yeast
  • 3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 teaspoon table salt

Baking Soda Bath

  • ⅓ cup baking soda
  • 3 cups warm water

Topping

  • 6 tablespoons grated Parmesan
  • 2 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small saucepan, warm the milk to 110°F (43°C). Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 2 minutes to activate and become frothy.
  2. Make the dough: Pour the yeast mixture into a medium bowl. Add the brown sugar and 1 cup of flour, stirring to combine. Then stir in 2 tablespoons of the melted butter. Gradually add the remaining flour and salt, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it, adding extra flour as needed, until smooth and slightly sticky, about 5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the garlic-Parmesan topping: In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Set aside for later use.
  5. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  6. Shape the pretzels: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Add 3 tablespoons of the garlic-Parmesan mixture to the dough and knead it in until evenly combined. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a long rope about 30 inches long. Form each rope into a traditional pretzel shape by crossing the ends twice, then pressing the twisted part onto the pretzel base.
  7. Baking soda bath: In a shallow dish, dissolve the baking soda in the warm water. Quickly dip each pretzel into this mixture to give the crust its characteristic chewy texture and golden color.
  8. Bake the pretzels: Place the dipped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
  9. Finish with butter and topping: Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Brush the warm pretzels on both sides with the melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the pretzels. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Milk temperature should be warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Be sure to dip the pretzels briefly in the baking soda bath to create the distinctive chewy crust.
  • Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking during baking.
  • These pretzels are best served fresh and warm but can be reheated in the oven to refresh texture.
  • You can substitute the Italian seasoning with dried herbs like oregano and basil if desired.

Keywords: soft pretzels, Parmesan pretzels, homemade pretzels, garlic Parmesan, snack recipes, baking, soft pretzel recipe

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/parmesan-soft-pretzels-recipe/