Homemade Pretzel Rolls: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Are you ready to elevate your bread game? Look no further than these mouthwatering pretzel rolls! Combining the chewy texture of a classic pretzel with the versatility of a dinner roll, these homemade pretzel rolls are about to become your new favorite comfort food. Perfect for sandwiches, as a side dish, or simply enjoyed on their own, these golden-brown beauties will impress your family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love These Pretzel Rolls
- Irresistible chewy texture with a crispy crust
- Versatile – great for sandwiches or as a side dish
- Impressive homemade touch for any meal
- Simple ingredients, big flavor
Essential Tools for Pretzel Roll Success
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Large pot for boiling
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Sharp knife or lame for scoring
The Ultimate Pretzel Roll Recipe
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Detailed Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Mix these dry ingredients briefly to distribute evenly. Add 1 1/4 cups of warm water (about 110°F) and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to the bowl.
Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed for about 5 minutes to incorporate all ingredients. Then, increase the speed to medium and continue kneading for another 5 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic.
2. First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball by pinching the edges together underneath. Place the shaped rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest for about 15 minutes.
4. Preheat and Prepare
While the rolls are resting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully add 1/4 cup of baking soda. The water will fizz up, so add it slowly!
5. Boil the Rolls
Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, gently lower each roll into the boiling water. Boil for about 30 seconds on each side, then remove and place back on the prepared baking sheet. This step is crucial for achieving that classic pretzel flavor and texture!
6. Final Touches and Baking
Once all rolls have been boiled, use a sharp knife or lame to score the tops with an “X” or any design you prefer. In a small bowl, beat one large egg and brush this egg wash over each roll. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake the pretzel rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re a deep golden brown. The exact time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them!
Serving and Storing Your Pretzel Rolls
These pretzel rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. They’re perfect for sandwiches, as a side to your favorite soup, or simply enjoyed on their own with a smear of butter. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations! You’ve just mastered the art of homemade pretzel rolls. The combination of a chewy interior, crispy crust, and that unmistakable pretzel flavor makes these rolls a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, bringing them to a potluck, or simply treating yourself, these pretzel rolls are sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Get that mixer out, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering aroma of fresh pretzel rolls filling your kitchen. Your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you!
Ready to take your baking skills to the next level? Give these pretzel rolls a try and let us know how they turn out in the comments below!