Name: Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 1/4 cups warm water; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 4 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice blend; 10 cups water; 2/3 cup baking soda; 1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water); Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Cozy up with soft, warm Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels, an irresistibly fluffy fall treat that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin. These easy-to-make pretzels combine the classic chewy texture of traditional soft pretzels with a delightful seasonal twist, perfectly blending spice and subtle sweetness for a snack everyone will adore. Whether you’re winding down on a crisp evening or hosting a cozy gathering, Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels bring warmth and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seasonal Flavors: The perfect blend of pumpkin and fall spices brings a festive warmth to classic soft pretzels.
Soft and Chewy Texture: Each pretzel is tender on the inside with a lightly golden crust that’s just the right balance.
Easy to Make: No fancy equipment needed; simple steps make this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
Perfect Snack or Dessert: This recipe works beautifully as an afternoon snack or paired with sweet dips for dessert.
Customizable: Spice levels and topping options can be adjusted to match your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential for achieving that perfect soft pretzel texture and the rich pumpkin spice flavor that makes this recipe special. Each element contributes something unique to the taste, aroma, or structure of these pumpkin-infused snacks.

All-purpose flour: Provides the soft pretzel base with structure and chewiness.
Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and that unmistakable fall flavor.
Warm water: Activates yeast for a fluffy dough rise.
Active dry yeast: Essential for creating the soft, airy texture that pretzels require.
Brown sugar: Offers subtle sweetness that complements the spices.
Butter: Adds richness and helps with a tender crumb.
Pumpkin pie spice blend: Combines cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for authentic fall flavor.
Baking soda: Used in the boiling step to give the pretzels their characteristic crust.
Coarse sea salt: Sprinkled on top for that ideal salty-sweet balance.
Egg wash: Helps achieve a shiny, golden finish.

Variations

The beauty of the Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to adapt the recipe according to your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or even what you have on hand. It’s simple to tweak the flavors or experiment with different toppings.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make it allergy friendly.
Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a flaxseed egg for the egg wash.
Sweet Dip Variation: Serve with cream cheese frosting or caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Spice It Up: Increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat.
Optional Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for extra crunch.

Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels Warm Fall Snack Recipe

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by activating your yeast in warm water with brown sugar until it becomes frothy, about 5 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, pumpkin puree, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover it and let it rise for about one hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Pretzels

Divide the risen dough into equal portions and roll each into a long rope. Twist each rope into the classic pretzel shape by forming a U, crossing the ends, and pressing them down onto the base. Arrange the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment.

Step 3: Boil with Baking Soda

Preheat a large pot with water and baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling solution for about 30 seconds. This alkaline bath helps create that chewy exterior and golden crust. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Add Egg Wash and Salt

Brush each pretzel with egg wash to promote browning. Immediately sprinkle with coarse sea salt or your preferred toppings to enhance the savory-sweet contrast.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the pretzels in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before serving warm for the best experience.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels

Use Fresh Yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for a good rise and soft texture.
Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour quantity if needed for easier handling.
Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath: This step is crucial for that classic pretzel crust and chew.
Egg Wash Alternatives: For a vegan option, use almond milk or melted coconut oil to get a lovely glaze.
Timing the Spice: Adding pumpkin pie spice directly to the dough rather than after baking helps infuse deeper flavor.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels

Garnishes

Enhance your Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels with toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple glaze to elevate their cozy flavor profile.

Side Dishes

Pair these warm pretzels with creamy pumpkin dip, whipped honey butter, or even a hot cup of spiced apple cider to round out an inviting fall snack spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your pretzels on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of various dips and toppings, or wrap each pretzel individually in parchment and tie it with twine for a charming seasonal gift idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

Freeze cooled pretzels in a zip-top bag for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste and soft texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?

Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is actually what this recipe recommends for its smooth texture and consistent moisture.

Are Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! The basic recipe contains no meat products, but always check toppings and egg wash alternatives if you want to keep it fully vegetarian or vegan.

How long does the dough take to rise?

The dough typically takes about one hour to double in size, but this can vary depending on the room temperature.

Can I substitute the pumpkin pie spice with individual spices?

Yes, you can mix ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice in similar ratios to replicate pumpkin pie spice if you don’t have a pre-made blend.

What is the best way to store leftover pretzels?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for longer storage to keep them fresh and tasty.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels that fills your home with delightful aromas and invites warmth into every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, this easy, delicious recipe is sure to become a fall favorite. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the simple joy of baking these soft, spiced snacks that taste like autumn itself.

Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels

Author: Savannah
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 8-10 pretzels 1x
Diet: Vegetarian (can be made vegan with substitutions)

Print Recipe

Description

Cozy up with soft, warm Pumpkin Spice Soft Pretzels, an irresistibly fluffy fall treat combining the classic chewy texture of traditional soft pretzels with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and other seasonal spices. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these pretzels fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and offer a festive twist that everyone will adore.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Start by activating your yeast in warm water with brown sugar until it becomes frothy, about 5 minutes. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, pumpkin puree, melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, then cover it and let it rise for about one hour or until doubled in size.
Shape the Pretzels: Divide the risen dough into equal portions and roll each into a long rope. Twist each rope into the classic pretzel shape by forming a U, crossing the ends, and pressing them down onto the base. Arrange the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Boil with Baking Soda: Preheat a large pot with water and baking soda. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling solution for about 30 seconds. This alkaline bath helps create that chewy exterior and golden crust. Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
Add Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each pretzel with egg wash to promote browning. Immediately sprinkle with coarse sea salt or your preferred toppings to enhance the savory-sweet contrast.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the pretzels in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Once out of the oven, allow them to cool slightly before serving warm for the best experience.

Notes

Use fresh yeast to ensure a good rise and soft texture.
The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour quantity if needed for easier handling.
Don’t skip the baking soda bath, crucial for the classic pretzel crust and chew.
For a vegan egg wash alternative, use almond milk or melted coconut oil for a lovely glaze.
Adding pumpkin pie spice directly to the dough helps infuse deeper flavor.
Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.
Freeze cooled pretzels in a zip-top bag for up to one month; thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheat pretzels in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste and soft texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American