Soft Pretzel Rolls

Name: Soft Pretzel Rolls
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups warm water; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1 tbsp sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tbsp melted butter; 10 cups water mixed with 2/3 cup baking soda, for boiling; 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp water, for brushing; Coarse salt, for topping

12 servings40 min prep15 min cookMedium

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Soft Pretzel Rolls

Story updated September 18, 2026

Pretzels trace back to European monastic baking, possibly as early as the 7th century, with monks shaping dough to resemble folded arms in prayer. The pretzel roll—combining the pretzel's distinctive crust with a soft sandwich roll shape—is a more recent American bakery innovation.

Ingredients

Scale:· 12 servings

1 1/2 cups warm water
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1 tbsp sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tbsp melted butter
10 cups water mixed with 2/3 cup baking soda, for boiling
1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp water, for brushing
Coarse salt, for topping

Instructions

1Stir yeast and sugar into warm water; let sit until foamy.
2Stir in flour, salt, and melted butter to form a dough, then knead 8 minutes.
3Let rise 1 hour, until doubled.
4Divide into 12 balls and let rest 10 minutes.
5Bring the baking soda water to a boil; boil each roll 20-30 seconds per side.
6Place on a baking sheet, slash the tops, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with salt.
7Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, until deep golden brown.

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