auntie anne’s recipe
The Best auntie anne’s recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can keep it classic with just salt and butter, or get creative with cinnamon sugar, garlic powder, or even everything bagel seasoning. It’s also a great way to sneak in some whole wheat flour if you’re trying to make it a little healthier. The dough rises fast, so it’s perfect for when you need something quick but still impressive. Plus, the kids can help shape them, which makes it a fun little kitchen project. They’re not exactly health food, but compared to store-bought snacks, they’re a win—no weird preservatives, just real ingredients you can actually pronounce.
Auntie Anne’s Copycat Soft Pretzels
These homemade soft pretzels mimic the famous Auntie Anne’s recipe with a buttery, salty exterior and a soft, chewy interior. Perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite dips.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 8 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten
- Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt
- Melted butter for brushing
- Cheese sauce or mustard for dipping
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. -
2
Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms (use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5 minutes or knead by hand for 8-10 minutes). -
3
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. -
4
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. -
5
Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 20-inch rope, then shape into a pretzel (twist into a U, cross the ends, and press onto the bottom). -
6
In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil. Dip each pretzel in the bath for 20-30 seconds, then place on the baking sheet. -
7
Brush pretzels with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. -
8
Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Optional: Brush with melted butter after baking for extra flavor. -
9
Serve warm with cheese sauce, mustard, or your favorite dip.
🔧Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
- Clean kitchen towel
- Large pot
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Auntie Anne’s Copycat Soft Pretzels Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Auntie Anne’s Copycat Soft Pretzels
1. What is the secret to Auntie Anne’s soft and chewy pretzels?
The key to Auntie Anne’s signature texture lies in the dough’s resting time and the baking process. The dough is allowed to rise properly, which develops gluten for chewiness. Additionally, the pretzels are boiled in a baking soda solution before baking, creating a soft interior and slightly crispy exterior. Brushing them with melted butter after baking adds richness and shine.
2. Can I make Auntie Anne’s pretzels without a stand mixer?
Yes! While a stand mixer makes kneading easier, you can mix and knead the dough by hand. Combine the ingredients in a large bowl, then turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
3. What’s the best way to reheat Auntie Anne’s pretzels to keep them soft?
To revive leftover pretzels, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15–20 seconds. For a crispier texture, reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid over-drying them, as this can make them tough.
4. Why do Auntie Anne’s pretzels have a shiny, golden-brown crust?
The shiny crust comes from the baking soda bath before baking. The alkaline solution (baking soda + water) promotes browning through the Maillard reaction. Brushing the pretzels with melted butter after baking enhances the glossy finish and adds flavor.
5. Can I freeze Auntie Anne’s pretzel dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough after the first rise. Shape the dough into pretzels, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then let them rise at room temperature before boiling and baking.
