Wetzel’s Pretzels Copycat Recipe: Secrets to Delicious Homemade Pretzels

There’s nothing quite like the warm, chewy goodness of Wetzel’s Pretzels. I remember craving them from the first bite—the perfect balance of soft and salty was irresistible. Making a copycat version at home felt like a must, and trust me, it’s easier than you might think.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for kneading
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 10 cups water, for boiling
• 2/3 cup baking soda
• Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Equipment

To master this Wetzel’s Pretzels copycat recipe, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Large Mixing Bowl

Perfect for combining dough ingredients and allowing the dough to rise.

• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Attachment

Efficiently kneads the dough, ensuring the right texture and consistency.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Essential for accurately measuring both dry and liquid ingredients.

• Digital Kitchen Scale

Provides precise measurements for ingredients, enhancing the dough’s consistency.

• Large Pot

Needed for boiling the pretzels in the baking soda solution to achieve that classic pretzel texture.

• Slotted Spoon or Spider Skimmer

Safely lifts the pretzels from the boiling water without excess liquid.

• Baking Sheets

Ideal for arranging pretzels evenly before baking.

• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats

Prevents sticking and promotes even baking on the sheets.

• Cooling Rack

Allows pretzels to cool properly, maintaining their crispness.

• Kitchen Timer

Helps keep track of rising and baking times accurately.

• Brush

For applying melted butter or egg wash to the pretzels before baking.

Having these tools on hand will streamline the pretzel-making process and help you achieve delicious, authentic-tasting Wetzel’s Pretzels at home.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing Wetzel’s Pretzels in advance is a game-changer for busy days or when entertaining guests. Here’s how I streamline the process to ensure your pretzels are fresh and delicious whenever you need them.

Preparing the Dough Ahead

1. Mix and Knead the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour with 1½ cups warm water.
• Sprinkle 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
• Add 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon salt.
• Using my stand mixer with a dough hook, knead the mixture for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

1. First Rise

• Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
• Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

1. Shape the Pretzels

• Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
• Roll each piece into a long rope and twist into the classic pretzel shape.

1. Prepare for Freezing

• Place the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch.
• Flash freeze the pretzels in the freezer for about 1 hour until solid.
• Transfer the frozen pretzels to a zip-top freezer bag. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.

Baking from Frozen

When you’re ready to enjoy your pretzels, follow these steps:

1. Thaw the Pretzels

• Remove the desired number of pretzels from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

1. Boil with Baking Soda

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
• In a large pot, bring 10 cups water to a boil and add 2/3 cup baking soda.
• Carefully place the thawed pretzels into the boiling water, one at a time, boiling each for 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove them.

1. Bake Until Golden

• Arrange the boiled pretzels on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Sprinkle each with coarse sea salt.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they achieve a deep golden brown color.

1. Brush with Butter

• Immediately after baking, brush the pretzels with melted butter for that authentic Wetzel’s shine and flavor.

Quick Reference Table

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy freshly baked Wetzel’s Pretzels anytime with minimal effort. Whether it’s a spontaneous snack or a planned gathering, your homemade pretzels will always impress.

Directions

Follow these steps to create delicious Wetzel’s Pretzels right in your kitchen.

Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F) with 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Ingredients: Add 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough begins to come together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook and knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Pretzels

1. Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces.
2. Form the Pretzels: Roll each piece into a 20-inch long rope. Twist each rope into a traditional pretzel shape by crossing the ends over each other and pressing them onto the bottom loop.
3. Prepare for Boiling: Place the shaped pretzels on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats. Cover them with a clean towel and let them rest for 15 minutes.

Boil the Pretzels

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Boiling Solution: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add 2/3 cup baking soda to the boiling water.
3. Boil the Pretzels: Using a slotted spoon, gently lower each pretzel into the boiling solution. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove and place back on the prepared baking sheets.
4. Add Toppings: Brush each pretzel with melted butter and generously sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.

Bake the Pretzels

1. Bake: Place the pretzels in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
2. Cool: Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Elevating homemade Wetzel’s Pretzels starts with pairing them with the perfect accompaniments. Here are my top serving ideas to make your pretzel experience unforgettable:

Dipping Sauces

Enhance the flavor of your pretzels with a variety of delicious dips:

• Classic Cheese Dip
• Melt cheddar cheese with a splash of milk and a pinch of paprika.
• Honey Mustard
• Combine equal parts honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy option.
• Spicy Mustard
• Mix yellow mustard with a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
• Garlic Herb Butter
• Blend melted butter with minced garlic and fresh herbs like parsley.

Toppings

Add extra texture and flavor by sprinkling these toppings on your pretzels:

• Coarse Sea Salt
• The traditional choice for that perfect salty crunch.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning
• A mix of sesame seeds, dried onion, garlic, and poppy seeds.
• Sesame Seeds
• Lightly toast for a nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar
• For a sweet twist, especially on pretzel sticks.

Beverage Pairings

Choose the right drinks to complement your pretzels:

Presentation Ideas

Make serving pretzels visually appealing with these presentation tips:

• Platter Arrangement
• Arrange pretzels in a circular pattern around dips for an inviting look.
• Pretzel Sticks in Glasses
• Place pretzel sticks vertically in clear glasses filled with your favorite dips.
• Seasonal Themes
• Decorate your serving area with seasonal elements like autumn leaves or festive ribbons.

Meal Ideas

Incorporate pretzels into various meal settings for versatile enjoyment:

• Appetizers
• Serve pretzels with a selection of dips at the beginning of your meal.
• Snack Packs
• Create individual snack bags with pretzels and a small dip container for on-the-go treats.
• Party Platters
• Combine pretzels with cheeses, meats, and fruits for a balanced party spread.
• Lunch Accompaniments
• Pair pretzels with soups or salads for a satisfying midday meal.

By exploring these serving suggestions, you can customize your homemade Wetzel’s Pretzels to suit any occasion and satisfy every palate.

Tips for Perfect Pretzels

Use High-Quality Ingredients

Starting with the best ingredients makes all the difference. I always choose unbleached all-purpose flour for its perfect gluten content, ensuring a chewy texture. Fresh active dry yeast guarantees a nice rise, while coarse sea salt adds that signature crunch and flavor on top.

Master the Kneading Process

Proper kneading develops the gluten network essential for the right pretzel structure. I knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, set it to medium speed with a dough hook attachment.

Allow Sufficient Rise Time

Letting the dough rise properly is crucial. I let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step enhances the flavor and texture, making your pretzels light and airy.

Boil with Baking Soda

Boiling the pretzels in a baking soda solution is key to achieving that authentic pretzel exterior. I use a large pot with enough water to submerge the pretzels entirely and add 1/2 cup of baking soda. Bring it to a gentle boil before adding the pretzels, and boil each for about 30 seconds.

Achieve the Perfect Baking Temperature

Baking at the right temperature ensures a golden-brown finish. I preheat my oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat helps develop a crispy crust while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they’re beautifully browned.

Brush with Melted Butter

After baking, brushing the pretzels with melted butter adds a rich flavor and glossy appearance. I melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and generously brush each pretzel immediately after they come out of the oven.

Sprinkle Generously with Coarse Sea Salt

Don’t shy away from the salt! A generous sprinkle of coarse sea salt not only enhances the flavor but also provides that classic pretzel crunch. I prefer using high-quality sea salt for the best texture and taste.

Let Them Cool Properly

Allowing the pretzels to cool on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy. I let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps set the exterior, maintaining that perfect balance between soft and crunchy.

Experiment with Toppings

While traditional pretzels are fantastic, experimenting with toppings can elevate your pretzel game. I love adding everything from sesame seeds and cinnamon sugar to garlic herb butter and parmesan cheese. Feel free to get creative and find your favorite combination.

Serve Fresh

Pretzels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. I recommend serving them warm with your favorite dipping sauces like cheese dip, honey mustard, or spicy mustard. Fresh pretzels have the ideal texture and flavor that are hard to beat.

Make Ahead and Freeze

For convenience, you can make pretzels ahead of time and freeze them. I shape and boil the pretzels, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Use a Digital Kitchen Scale

Precision matters in baking. I use a digital kitchen scale to measure ingredients accurately, ensuring consistent results every time. Measuring by weight is more reliable than using volume measurements, especially for flour.

Maintain Proper Dough Hydration

The right dough hydration affects the pretzel’s chewiness. I keep the dough slightly sticky but manageable by adjusting the water as needed. This balance ensures that the pretzels are soft inside with a delightful crust outside.

Invest in a Good Stand Mixer

A stand mixer with a dough hook makes kneading effortless and effective. I find that it saves time and ensures the dough is evenly developed, which is essential for the perfect pretzel texture.

Preheat Baking Sheets

Preheating the baking sheets helps in achieving a crispy bottom. I place the parchment paper or silicone mats on the preheated sheets and transfer the boiled pretzels directly onto them for baking.

Monitor Baking Progress

Keep a close eye on your pretzels as they bake. I start checking them around the 10-minute mark to prevent over-baking. Each oven is different, so adjust the time as needed to achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Enhance Flavor with Melted Butter

For an extra layer of flavor, I sometimes mix herbs like rosemary or garlic powder into the melted butter before brushing it on the pretzels. This small addition can make a big impact on the overall taste.

Store Properly

To keep pretzels fresh, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature. I avoid refrigerating as it can make them soggy. When stored correctly, they stay deliciously soft and chewy for up to two days.

Reheat for Freshness

If pretzels have cooled, I reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This brings back their original warmth and texture, making them taste freshly baked.

Conclusion

Making Wetzel’s Pretzels at home has been such a rewarding experience for me. The combination of soft dough and that perfect salty crunch really hits the spot every time. I love how accessible the recipe is and how it fits seamlessly into busy schedules, thanks to the make-ahead options.

Experimenting with different toppings and dips has been a fun way to personalize each batch. Whether it’s a classic cheese dip or a sweet cinnamon sugar finish, there’s always a new flavor to try. Seeing friends and family enjoy the pretzels makes all the effort worth it.

If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, I encourage you to give it a go. There’s something truly special about homemade pretzels that store-bought just can’t match. Happy baking!