Step 1: Mix the Dough In a stand mixer’s bowl or a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Add the warm water, honey, and softened butter, then knead on medium speed until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky, about 4-5 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour as needed. This step sets the foundation for that soft, chewy texture in your soft pretzel recipes.

Step 2: First Rise Once mixed, cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 15 minutes to 1 hour until it puffs up a bit. This rising time allows the yeast to work its magic, creating air pockets that make the pretzels light and fluffy.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven Set your oven to 425 °F (220 °C) and line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Preparing ahead helps streamline the process, especially for busy parents or working professionals multitasking in the kitchen.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces, about 50 g each. Roll each piece into a 10-inch rope, then twist two ropes together to form a candy-cane-shaped coil. Place the shaped rolls on the prepared sheets, cover them, and let them rise for another 15 minutes. For a link to similar shaped treats, check out our cherry coconut bars recipe for more shaping ideas.

Step 5: Boil the Water Bath Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in the baking soda. If you prefer a softer texture, you can skip this step, but it adds that classic pretzel crust. Carefully boil the shaped rolls (one at a time if needed), then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them back on the sheets.

Step 6: Egg Wash and Salt Brush each roll lightly with the egg-yolk wash, then sprinkle generously with pretzel salt. This step enhances the flavor and gives the rolls a shiny finish.

Step 7: Bake and Glaze Bake the rolls for 22-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. While still hot, brush them with the honey-butter glaze made from melted butter and honey, then return them to the oven for 1-2 minutes to set the glaze. The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 50 minutes, including prep, rising, boiling, baking, and glazing.