German Sweet Pretzels. Recipe

German Sweet Pretzels, also known as "Laugenbrezeln," are a traditional German delicacy that can be traced back to the Early Middle Ages. These soft and chewy pretzels are typically enjoyed as a snack or as a side dish to accompany soups, sausages, or a cold glass of beer. They are a staple in German cuisine and are loved by people of all ages.

Fun Fact: The pretzel is believed to have originated in the monasteries of southern Germany, where they were initially used as a reward for children who learned their prayers. The twisted shape of the pretzel is said to resemble arms crossed in prayer, which is where their name "pretiola" derived from, meaning "little reward" in Latin.

Now, let's dive into the delightful recipe to make your very own German Sweet Pretzels!

Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup baking soda
- Coarse sea salt, for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix well.

3. Gradually pour in the yeast mixture while continuously stirring until a soft dough forms.

4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a long rope about 24 inches in length.

8. Take one end of the rope and make a loop, crossing the ends over each other twice. Then, bring the ends down and press them onto the loop to create the classic pretzel shape. Repeat this process with the remaining dough portions.

9. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and gently stir in the baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.

10. Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse sea salt and bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

11. Once baked, transfer the pretzels to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

12. Enjoy your freshly baked German Sweet Pretzels warm or at room temperature! They are best eaten on the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Similar recipe dishes:

1. Soft Pretzel Bites: If you want to enjoy the deliciousness of pretzels in bite-sized pieces, you can use the same dough to make pretzel bites instead. Simply divide the dough into smaller portions, roll them into small balls, follow the boiling and baking steps, and enjoy! These bite-sized pretzels are perfect for parties or snacking.

2. Almond Pretzels: For a twist on the traditional pretzel, you can add a delightful almond flavor. Simply sprinkle some sliced almonds on top of the pretzels before baking. The combination of the nutty flavor with the soft and chewy pretzel texture creates a unique and delicious treat.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels: If you have a sweet tooth, try making cinnamon sugar pretzels. After removing the pretzels from the boiling water, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top. Bake them as directed, and you'll have a heavenly sweet version of the classic pretzel.

German Sweet Pretzels are a beloved treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with different flavors, these pretzels are sure to satisfy your cravings and transport you to the heart of Germany's rich culinary heritage.

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