Simple Pretzel Rolls

When it comes to rolls, pretzel reigns supreme. The below recipe is for simple pretzel rolls that you can use for burgers, sandwiches, and of course, enjoy all by itself.

These rolls certainly look a bit … rustic. Don’t worry, my photography will improve.

Ingredients

• 1 and 1/2 cups warm water (temperature around 110F)
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 and 1/4 teaspoons)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 3 and 1/2 to 4 cups of all-purpose flour
• kosher salt for sprinkling

Baking Soda Bath Ingredients

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 9 cups water

Instructions

Part 1

1. Whisk the yeast and warm together and allow to sit for 1–2 minutes.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter and reserve the rest for later.
3. Whisk in the salt, brown sugar, and melted butter to the yeast mixture.
4. Gradually add 3 cups of flour, 1 cup at a time while mixing with a wooden spoon until dough is thick. Add 1/2 to 1 cup of flour in small increments until dough is no longer sticky.
5. Poke the dough with your finger. If it bounces back, it is ready to knead.

Part 2

1. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes and shape into a ball.
2. Place in a large greased bowl and cover with a damp dish towel and allow to rise in a warm environment for 1 hour or until the dough is nearly doubled in size.
3. Once the dough is done rising, punch the dough down to release any air bubbles. Turn out again onto a lightly floured surface and, with a pizza cutter (or sharp knife), cut the dough into 8 equal-sized portions.
4. Shape into balls.

Part 3

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper
3. Bring baking soda and 9 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Wait patiently for the water to really boil, this is important for good pretzel.
4. Drop 1 or 2 pretzel rolls at a time into the boiling water for 20–30 seconds.
5. Using a slotted spatula or spoon, lift the roll out of the water and allow excess water to drip off.
6. Place the rolls onto the prepared baking sheets and, using a sharp knife, score a large X onto the top of each roll.
7. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and lightly brush each roll with melted butter and sprinkle lavishly in kosher salt.
8. Bake for about 23–25 minutes until the rolls are deep golden brown.

Thanks for reading! Please leave comments, questions and constructive critiques!

Cam