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Philadelphia Pretzel Recipe

Philadelphia Pretzel Recipe

There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into an authentic Philadelphia pretzel recipe that brings the true taste of Philly right to your kitchen. These iconic twisted treats have been a cornerstone of Philadelphia street food culture for generations, gracing every corner cart and becoming a beloved Friday tradition in schools across the city.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 224
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1¼ cups warm water 110°F
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 8 cups water
  • ½ cup baking soda or 2 tbsp food-grade lye for authentic results
  • Coarse pretzel salt or sea salt
  • 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and oil, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Step 2: Knead the Dough Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
  3. Step 3: Shape the Philadelphia Pretzels Divide dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope. Form into the traditional Philadelphia figure-eight shape by creating a loop at each end and pressing the ends together at the center.
  4. Step 4: Prepare the Alkaline Bath Bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot. This creates the signature chewy crust that makes this Philadelphia pretzel recipe authentic.
  5. Step 5: Boil the Pretzels Gently lower 2-3 pretzels at a time into the boiling solution for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  6. Step 6: Final Preparation and Baking Brush pretzels with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Bake at 450°F for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown.

Video

Notes

Store your homemade Philadelphia pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen pretzels in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore their chewy texture.