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.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough 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

Boiling Solution

10 cups water
2/3 cup baking soda

Topping

1 egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

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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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pretzel
Calories: 220
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg