Sweet butter pretzels
Sweet Pretzels with Butter - An Irresistible Indulgence
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 1 hour
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 8 pretzels
The history of pretzels spans centuries, rooted deeply in the pastry traditions of various cultures. These sweet pretzels, with a soft texture and a delicious buttery flavor, are perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, these pretzels are an excellent choice, easy to make and extremely tasty.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 450 ml warm milk
- 600 g flour
- 7 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 1 and a half packets of dry yeast
- 1 and a half teaspoons salt
- 25 g baking soda
- 100 ml water
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for sprinkling)
For the glaze:
- 6 tablespoons melted butter
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk. Make sure it is not too hot, but warm to the touch. In a large bowl, add the dry yeast to the warm milk and mix well with a whisk or mixer. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until a fine foam begins to form. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Once the yeast is activated, add the sugar, softened butter, salt, and a quarter of the flour. Mix well using a mixer or spatula. Then, gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until the dough becomes elastic and slightly sticky. It is important not to add too much flour, as you want a soft and fluffy dough.
Step 3: Fermentation
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This process is essential for achieving fluffy and airy pretzels.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Soda Mixture
Meanwhile, prepare the warm water and baking soda mixture. This will be used to brush the pretzels before baking, giving them a slightly crispy crust and a beautiful color. In a small bowl, combine 100 ml of warm water with 25 g of baking soda, mixing until fully dissolved.
Step 5: Shape the Pretzels
After the dough has risen, sprinkle a work surface with flour and transfer the dough. Gently knead it, forming a long stick. Cut it into two equal parts, then halve each part until you have 8 equal pieces of dough. Shape each piece into a long roll about 55-60 cm, ensuring it is not thicker than a finger.
Step 6: Braiding
Braid each roll into a U shape, then twist the ends three times. Fold the ends back towards the main dough and press them gently to stick. This is the secret to getting the most beautiful and tasty pretzels.
Step 7: Wetting and Baking
Wet each pretzel with the water and baking soda mixture using a brush. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Generously sprinkle brown sugar on each pretzel to add a sweet taste and a crunchy texture. Preheat the oven to 200°C and bake the pretzels for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and appetizing.
Step 8: Glazing
In the last minutes of baking, melt the 6 tablespoons of butter over low heat. As soon as the pretzels are ready, take them out of the oven and brush them with the melted butter using a brush. This will give them an appetizing shine and an irresistible taste.
Step 9: Serving
Let the pretzels cool slightly, then serve them warm alongside a cup of tea or coffee. If you want to add a touch of originality, you can sprinkle them with a little cinnamon or nutmeg for a more complex flavor.
Practical Tips:
- Make sure the ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and yeast, for the best results.
- If you want fluffier pretzels, do not add too much flour during kneading.
- You can experiment with fillings by adding raisins or nuts to the dough before shaping it.
- These pretzels can be stored in the freezer and reheated in the microwave for a quick and delicious breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, use about 40 g of fresh yeast to replace the dry yeast. Dissolve it in warm milk before adding the other ingredients.
2. What can I use instead of butter for a vegan version?
You can use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter. The taste will be slightly different, but the result will be just as delicious.
3. How can I store the pretzels?
Store the pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To keep them longer, you can freeze them and reheat them in the microwave or oven.
This quick and easy dessert will surely become a favorite recipe in your family. Enjoy every bite of these sweet buttery pretzels, filled with flavor and love!
Ingredients: For the dough: 450 ml warm milk, 600 g flour, 7 tablespoons brown sugar, 4 tablespoons butter (at room temperature), 1 and a half packets of dry yeast, 1 and a half teaspoons salt, 25 g baking soda, 100 ml water, 2 tablespoons brown sugar. For the glaze: 6 tablespoons melted butter.
