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Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

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Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 105 reviews

If you’re craving a snack that’s soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe is an absolute game-changer—whether you’re hosting a movie night or just want to impress yourself in the kitchen. I love how these twists come out perfectly golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and you get to choose from five incredible toppings that will have everyone fighting over the last one!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Versatility: Five topping options let you mix and match flavors to suit any mood or guest preference.
  • Soft, Chewy Texture: The dough is perfectly tender, giving you that authentic pretzel experience right from your oven.
  • Accessible Ingredients: No fancy pantry required – just simple, everyday ingredients you probably have on hand.
  • Fun to Make: Twisting the pretzels is surprisingly easy and oh-so-satisfying once you see those beautiful shapes.
A close-up photo shows a group of five small bread rolls on a white marbled surface, each with a different topping or texture. The closest roll on the left is twisted and covered with a mix of black and white seeds, and some brown bits on a shiny golden crust. To its right, there is a round roll with a creamy yellow topping that looks soft and smooth. Behind these, another round roll is coated in a darker brown powder. In the blurry background, two more rolls can be seen, one with a shiny yellow topping and another with a slightly twisted shape. The light highlights the shiny golden brown crust of each roll, giving a fresh baked look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings, homemade pretzel twists, soft pretzel twists recipe, pretzel snack ideas, easy pretzel toppings this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe brings together a handful of wholesome ingredients that work beautifully to create that classic pretzel chewiness and flavor. I always recommend using fresh yeast and baking soda to get that characteristic pretzel crust—you’ll notice the difference right away.

Flat lay of a small mound of pale pretzel dough, a small white bowl of warm water, two brown whole eggs with clean shells, a few fresh rosemary sprigs, a cluster of garlic cloves, a small white bowl of melted butter, a small white bowl of grated Parmesan cheese, a small white bowl of cinnamon sugar mixture with visible cinnamon specks, small piles of poppy seeds and sesame seeds, small piles of dried garlic flakes and dried onion flakes, a small white bowl of coarse sea salt, thin slices of mini pepperoni arranged neatly, thin slices of fresh mozzarella cheese, all ingredients placed with perfect symmetry on a clean white ceramic surface, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings, homemade pretzel twists, soft pretzel twists recipe, pretzel snack ideas, easy pretzel toppings
  • Warm Water: Activates the yeast; make sure it’s warm, not hot, for the best dough rise.
  • Sugar: Feeds the yeast and gives a slight sweetness.
  • Sea Salt: Adds flavor to the dough and is also used as a topping for some versions.
  • Instant Yeast: The secret to a fluffy rise without fuss.
  • Flour: Provides structure – I use all-purpose, but bread flour works too for extra chewiness.
  • Melted Butter: Enriches the dough making it tender and flavorful.
  • Water (for boiling): Works with baking soda to give that classic pretzel crust texture.
  • Baking Soda: Essential for the boiling step—it’s what creates the pretzel’s signature crust and browning.
  • Egg (Beaten): Gives the pretzels a shiny, golden finish when brushed on before baking.
  • Garlic, Parmesan, Cinnamon Sugar, Seeds, Rosemary, Pepperoni, Mozzarella: Choice toppings to customize your pretzels in five delicious ways.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love to switch things up depending on the occasion or who I’m sharing these pretzels with. Don’t hesitate to add your own favorite herbs or cheeses—you might discover a new obsession!

  • Garlic Parmesan Twist: My family goes crazy for this one—the garlicky, buttery aroma is irresistible.
  • Cinnamon Sugar: A sweet spin that’s perfect for afternoon tea or a cozy breakfast treat.
  • Everything Seasoning: Inspired by bagels, this savory blend adds poppy, sesame, and dried onion flavors that are addictively good.
  • Sea Salt & Rosemary: Fresh rosemary brings a vibrant twist that pairs amazingly with a cold beer or soup.
  • Pepperoni Pizza: Feeling indulgent? Add mini pepperoni and mozzarella to sneak in a little pizza party vibe.

How to Make Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

Step 1: Bring Your Dough to Life

Start by mixing warm water, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in your mixer bowl. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy—this tells you the yeast is alive and well. Then add your flour and melted butter and mix on low speed until the dough starts pulling away from the bowl sides, around 5 minutes. I like to cover it and let it rise in the warm oven (turned off!) for about an hour; it doubles in size beautifully this way.

Step 2: Shape Your Pretzel Twists

Once your dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 10 pieces. Roll each into a 16-inch rope—you’ll find this gives each pretzel the perfect size. Fold the rope in half, then twist like a classic pretzel shape, and join the ends to seal it into a circle. I always make an extra twist or two just for fun because it feels like the signature step.

Step 3: Boil for that Perfect Pretzel Crust

This part is key—bring 8 cups of water and ½ cup baking soda to a rolling boil. Using a spatula, drop each pretzel twist in for about 45 seconds. You’ll see how this step magically firms up the exterior and gives it that distinctive pretzel texture and color during baking. Just remember, depending on your pot size, boil one or two at a time.

Step 4: Glaze and Dress Your Pretzels

After boiling, remove the pretzels and brush them lightly with beaten egg. This gives them a beautiful golden sheen. Then pick your favorite topping and get your hands ready—whether it’s garlic parmesan, cinnamon sugar, or the savory everything seasoning, go bold with your flavors.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy

Bake your pretzel twists on parchment-lined sheets at 425°F for 12-14 minutes or until beautifully puffed and golden. Once out of the oven, for some toppings like garlic parmesan or cinnamon sugar, I like to brush on a bit more melted butter to boost that irresistible flavor and shine. Serve warm—you’ll want to savor these right away!

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Pro Tips for Making Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

  • Perfect Water Temperature: Use water around 110°F to activate yeast without killing it—your dough will rise like a dream.
  • Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: It might seem odd, but this is what gives pretzels their irresistible chewy crust and deep color.
  • Brush on Egg Mixture Evenly: This step ensures an even golden color—any missed spots bake a little paler, and you want those shiny twists!
  • Avoid Overcrowding the Boiling Water: Boil pretzels in batches so they don’t stick or weaken, giving each pretzel space to puff perfectly.

How to Serve Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I often finish my pretzel twists with an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of Parmesan cheese before serving. For the pepperoni pizza version, a few fresh basil leaves on top add a fresh burst of color and flavor. These simple touches give your pretzels that bakery-level appeal.

Side Dishes

These pretzels are fantastic alongside a tangy mustard dip or creamy cheese sauce. I also love pairing them with a fresh green salad or a hearty bowl of chili—perfect for game day or a cozy night in.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’m serving these at parties, I like to arrange the pretzel twists on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of dips and extra toppings. For a festive twist, tie some with colorful ribbon and place them in a basket as edible party favors—trust me, they’re a big hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the crust from getting soggy, I pop a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture. They’re great for a quick snack the next day!

Freezing

One trick I discovered is freezing the pretzel twists *before* boiling and baking. Just shape them, freeze on a sheet until solid, then store in a zipper bag. When you’re ready, take them straight from the freezer to the boiling water—no thawing needed! It’s a total time saver for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop my pretzels in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes—they come out warm and maintain their perfect texture. Microwave’s quicker but tends to make them a bit chewy, so the oven is my go-to.

FAQs

  1. Can I make the dough without a stand mixer?

    Absolutely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand using a large bowl and your hands or a wooden spoon. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes elastic will get you the same great results.

  2. Why do pretzels need to be boiled in baking soda water?

    The baking soda bath is what gives the pretzels their characteristic chewy crust and deep golden color once baked. It alters the dough’s surface and helps it caramelize beautifully in the oven—skipping this step will result in softer, paler pretzels.

  3. Can I use regular table salt instead of sea salt?

    You can, but I recommend sticking with coarse sea salt or pretzel salt for toppings because it adds a pleasant crunch and bursts of flavor that table salt can’t quite deliver.

  4. How do I prevent my pretzels from sticking to the boiling water pot or baking sheet?

    Using a wide pot with plenty of water helps to give the pretzels enough space while boiling. When removing them, a flat spatula is your best friend. Also, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid sticking during baking.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe brings a little bakery magic into my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that’s fun to make, impresses friends and family, and hits the snack spot every single time. I still remember the first time I nailed the perfect twist and everyone couldn’t stop asking for more—it’s just that good. Give it a try and make it your own; your kitchen is about to smell amazing!

Print
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Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

Best Homemade Pretzel Twists with Toppings Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 105 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
  • Yield: 10 pretzel twists 1x
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Soft Pretzel Twists made with a classic dough and baked to golden perfection, offered with five delicious topping variations including Garlic Parmesan, Cinnamon Sugar, Everything, Sea Salt & Rosemary, and Pepperoni Pizza. These warm, chewy pretzels are perfect for snacks or gatherings, easy to make at home with a simple boiling and baking technique.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Dough:

  • 1½ cups warm water
  • 1 Tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp sea salt
  • 2¼ tsp instant yeast
  • 4½ cups flour
  • ¼ cup (1/2 a stick) butter, melted
  • 8 cups water
  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

Garlic Parmesan Topping:

  • 5 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 3 Tbsp butter, melted
  • 3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

  • 1 Tbsp cinnamon mixed with 4 Tbsp sugar
  • 3 Tbsp butter, melted

Everything Topping:

  • 4 tsp poppy seeds
  • 4 tsp sesame seeds
  • 4 tsp dried garlic
  • 4 tsp dried onion
  • 1 tsp sea salt

Sea Salt & Rosemary Topping:

  • 3 Tbsp fresh rosemary
  • 3 Tbsp sea salt

Pepperoni Pizza Topping:

  • Mini pepperoni, sliced thin
  • Mozzarella cheese, sliced thin

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine warm water, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy to activate the yeast. Add flour and melted butter and mix on low speed for about 5 minutes until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Transfer dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with aluminum foil, then place in the turned-off oven to rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  2. Shape Pretzels: Turn the risen dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 16-inch rope. Fold each rope in half and twist end over end to create the characteristic pretzel twist shape. Form into a circle and pinch the ends together to seal.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  4. Boil the Pretzels: Bring 8 cups of water and ½ cup baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Using a flat spatula, gently drop each pretzel twist into the boiling water and boil for 45 seconds. Boil one or a few at a time, depending on pot size. Remove from water carefully and place on prepared baking sheets. Brush each pretzel lightly with the beaten egg to help browning and topping adhesion.
  5. Apply Toppings and Bake: Select your desired topping style:
    – Garlic Parmesan: Spread crushed garlic over pretzels, sprinkle with Parmesan. Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden and puffed. Remove, brush with melted butter, sprinkle more Parmesan, and serve warm.
    – Cinnamon Sugar: Bake pretzels as above, then brush with melted butter and generously coat in cinnamon sugar mixture.
    – Everything: Mix poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt; sprinkle over pretzels before baking for 12-14 minutes.
    – Sea Salt & Rosemary: Sprinkle fresh rosemary and sea salt before baking for 12-14 minutes.
    – Pepperoni Pizza: Arrange thin slices of mini pepperoni and mozzarella cheese on pretzels before baking for 12-14 minutes. Serve warm.

Notes

  • If freezing, after twisting the pretzels (step 2), place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to bake, do not thaw; proceed directly to boiling and baking steps, adding 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
  • This recipe yields 10 pretzel twists, perfect for sharing or snacking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 pretzel twist
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 1.5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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