Can I make these pretzel buns gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the flour in the recipe and add 1 tsp of xanthan gum and 1/2 cup tapioca starch.

Why do pretzel buns need to be boiled?

Boiling the buns in a baking soda bath gives them their unique pretzel texture and flavor.

Can I use regular salt instead of coarse sea salt?

Yes, you can use regular kosher salt, but coarse sea salt provides a better texture and flavor.

How can I achieve a darker pretzel color?

You can bake your baking soda at 250°F for an hour before using it in the boiling mixture to achieve a darker pretzel color.

Do I need special equipment to make pretzel buns?

No, a standing mixer with a dough hook attachment is helpful but not mandatory. You can knead the dough by hand if needed.

Homemade Pretzel Buns

Name: Homemade Pretzel Buns
Prep time: 85 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 cups warm water; 1 tbsp sugar; 2 tsp kosher salt; 2.5 tsp instant yeast; 3.5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 4.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.67 cups baking soda; 1 egg yolk whisked; coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Shea Goldstein (@dixiechikcooks)

American Snack Side Main Course Vegetarian Contains Eggs

Homemade Pretzel Buns are easier than you think to make at home. They’re far superior to regular burger buns and sandwich bread, and they instantly elevate a burger to gourmet status. One of the best things about this recipe is that you probably already have all of the ingredients in your pantry – all-purpose flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and olive oil. These pretzel buns are soft, chewy, and perfect for burgers, sandwiches, or BBQ. They...

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Prep Time

1hr 25min

Cook Time

15min

Total Time

1hr 40min

Ingredients

8 Servings

(1 serving = 1 pretzel bun)

Pretzel Dough

warm water
1 1/2cups
sugar
1tbsp
kosher salt
2tsp
instant yeast
2 1/2tsp
unsalted butter, melted
3 1/2tbsp
all-purpose flour
4 1/2cups

Boiling Mixture

baking soda
2/3cups

Topping

egg yolk whisked
1
coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

How to make Homemade Pretzel Buns

Prepare the Dough

Step 1
Combine the water and sugar in a standing mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast on top. Allow to sit for 10 minutes, until the mixture looks foamy.
Step 2
Add the melted butter and stir to combine.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the flour and salt together.
Step 4
Pour the flour mixture into the bowl with the liquid and mix on low using the dough hook attachment until all ingredients are combined.
Step 5
Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead until the dough is smooth and starts to pull away from the side of the bowl, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 6
Toss the dough with a little olive oil and cover with a kitchen towel. Place in a warm spot until the dough has doubled in size, about an hour.

Shape and Boil the Pretzels

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drizzle with a little oil.
Step 2
Fill a large pot with water about halfway and add the baking soda. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Step 3
Place the dough on a slightly oiled counter and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4
Drop the pretzels into the boiling water, 2 or 3 at a time, for about 30 seconds, carefully flipping them around in the hot water.
Step 5
Remove them from the water using tongs or a slotted spoon and place on the oiled baking sheet.

Bake the Pretzels

Step 1
Brush the top of each pretzel with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Step 2
Bake until golden brown in color, about 12-15 minutes.
Step 3
Remove from the oven and place on a cooling rack to cool completely.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

258.2kcal (12.91%)

Protein

6.8g (13.56%)

Carbs

47.8g (17.39%)

Sugars

1.7g (3.42%)

Healthy Fat

1.5g

Unhealthy Fat

3.1g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

For a darker pretzel, consider baking your baking soda at 250°F for an hour before using it in the boiling mixture.
Use Maldon Salt crystals for the topping for a better taste and texture.
Ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pretzels for the best texture.
Brush the pretzels generously with egg wash for a shiny, golden finish.

FAQS

Can I make these pretzel buns gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the flour in the recipe and add 1 tsp of xanthan gum and 1/2 cup tapioca starch.
Why do pretzel buns need to be boiled?
Boiling the buns in a baking soda bath gives them their unique pretzel texture and flavor.
Can I use regular salt instead of coarse sea salt?
Yes, you can use regular kosher salt, but coarse sea salt provides a better texture and flavor.
How can I achieve a darker pretzel color?
You can bake your baking soda at 250°F for an hour before using it in the boiling mixture to achieve a darker pretzel color.
Do I need special equipment to make pretzel buns?
No, a standing mixer with a dough hook attachment is helpful but not mandatory. You can knead the dough by hand if needed.

Shea Goldstein

(@dixiechikcooks)

A Southern Belle Who's Thinking About What's For Dinner While Eating Lunch

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