Vegan Soft Pretzels

These Vegan Soft Pretzels are not only simple to make but also incredibly tasty! They are light, savory, and buttery, making them perfect for any occasion—whether as an appetizer at a party or a delightful snack during movie night. Unlike store-bought pretzels, these homemade treats offer a freshness and flavor that will leave you craving more. Enjoy the warm, soft texture paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can whip up these pretzels in no time.
• Versatile Snack: Serve them warm with mustard, cheese dip, or any sauce of your choice.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made from organic flour and vegan butter for a wholesome treat without any animal products.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 8 pretzels, ideal for sharing at gatherings or keeping all to yourself!
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding spices or toppings to suit your taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Vegan Soft Pretzels, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Slotted spatula
• Baking tray

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer or Mixing Bowl: A stand mixer makes kneading easy, while a bowl is essential for mixing ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your dough comes out perfect every time.
• Rolling Pin: Helps shape the dough into long ropes needed for pretzel formation.
• Slotted Spatula: Ideal for safely dipping pretzels into boiling water without splashing.

Ingredients

These simple vegan soft pretzels are light, savory, and buttery! Perfect as an appetizer or snack and so much better than store bought!

Ingredients:
– 1/4 Cup Baking Soda
– 5 Cups Simmering Water
– 2 1/2-3/4 Cups Organic All Purpose Flour
– 1 Packet (0.25 oz.) Active Dry Yeast
– 2 Tbsp Cane Sugar
– 2 Tbsp Melted Vegan Butter (+ more to top)
– 1 Cup Slightly Warm Water
– 1 Tsp Salt
– Course Salt To Top

How to Make Vegan Soft Pretzels

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Mix together 1 cup of slightly warm water (about 110 degrees F) with the sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast over the top of the water but do not stir in; allow it to sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2: Create the Dough

Now stir in the melted vegan butter. Add salt and the flour one cup at a time until it forms a dough. If the dough is still sticky after adding 2 1/2 cups of flour, add a bit more until it isn’t sticky.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Put the dough on a flat floured surface. Knead with the palm of your hand for about 3–5 minutes until it feels firm.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Add oil to a large bowl and spread it around. Place the dough inside and cover it. Let it rise for about 1 hour. A warm place like an oven with just the light on works well.

Step 5: Prepare for Boiling

Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down. Begin simmering 5 cups of water in a pot a few inches deep. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F.

Step 6: Shape Pretzels

Transfer the dough to a flat surface and cut it into 8 parts. Roll each piece into long ropes about 10–12 inches long. Form each rope into a U shape.

Step 7: Form Pretzel Shape

Cross both ends over each other twice, then bring them towards you and squish them down to form your pretzel shape.

Step 8: Boil Pretzels

Add baking soda to the simmering water (it will foam). Using a slotted spatula, dip each pretzel one by one for about 20 seconds before removing them onto a baking tray.

Step 9: Bake

Brush each pretzel lightly with melted vegan butter and sprinkle course salt on top. Bake for about 10–15 minutes or until they are golden brown. Serve warm with mustard or sauce of your choice!

How to Serve Vegan Soft Pretzels

Vegan soft pretzels make for a delightful snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just indulging during a movie night, these pretzels can be paired with delicious dips and sides.

With Mustard

• Classic yellow mustard adds a tangy kick that complements the soft pretzel’s buttery flavor.

Cheese Sauce

• A warm, vegan cheese sauce provides a creamy and rich accompaniment, perfect for dipping.

Hummus

• For a healthier option, serve your pretzels with hummus. The chickpea spread adds protein and flavor.

Salsa

• Fresh salsa brings a zesty freshness that contrasts nicely with the savory pretzels.

Guacamole

• Creamy guacamole can enhance your pretzel experience with its smooth texture and rich taste.

Vegan Cream Cheese

• Spreadable vegan cream cheese offers a luxurious addition that pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of the pretzel.

How to Perfect Vegan Soft Pretzels

To ensure your vegan soft pretzels turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind. Following them will help you achieve that ideal texture and flavor.

• Use warm water – Ensuring your water is slightly warm (around 110 degrees F) helps activate the yeast effectively.

• Knead well – Kneading the dough for at least 3-5 minutes develops gluten, giving your pretzels their chewy texture.

• Let it rise – Allowing the dough to rise in a warm place ensures it doubles in size, making for a lighter pretzel.

• Baking soda bath – The baking soda dip before baking gives your pretzels their signature dark brown color and distinct flavor.

• Keep an eye on baking time – Watch closely while baking; they should be golden brown but not burnt. Adjust times based on your oven’s heat.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Soft Pretzels

Pairing side dishes with vegan soft pretzels can elevate your snacking experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy, seasoned fries add sweetness and crunch, making for a satisfying combo.

2. Vegetable Platter – A colorful assortment of fresh veggies can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm pretzel.

3. Chili – A hearty bowl of vegan chili complements the savory flavors and adds warmth to the meal.

4. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers richness alongside the soft texture of the pretzel.

5. Coleslaw – This crunchy side adds brightness and acidity to balance out the heaviness of the pretzel.

6. Pickles – Tart pickles offer an excellent contrast in flavors, enhancing your overall snacking experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making vegan soft pretzels can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your pretzels turn out amazing.

• Using cold water: Always use slightly warm water (about 110 degrees F) to activate the yeast properly. Cold water can prevent the yeast from rising.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until the dough is firm (3-5 minutes). Over-kneading can make your pretzels tough instead of soft.
• Skipping the baking soda bath: This crucial step gives pretzels their signature flavor and chewy texture. Don’t skip it or reduce the time in the bath!
• Not preheating the oven: Make sure your oven is at 450 degrees before baking. A hot oven helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Adding too much flour: Be cautious with flour additions; adding too much can make your dough dry. Aim for a smooth, slightly tacky consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Vegan soft pretzels will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Vegan Soft Pretzels

• Place cooled pretzels in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Soft Pretzels

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 15-20 seconds, but note they may lose some texture.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about vegan soft pretzels that might help clarify any doubts.

What makes Vegan Soft Pretzels different from regular pretzels?

Vegan soft pretzels do not contain any animal products. They use plant-based ingredients, making them suitable for vegans and those with dietary restrictions.

Can I add flavors to my Vegan Soft Pretzels?

Absolutely! You can experiment by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even herbs like rosemary to the dough for extra flavor.

How long does it take to make Vegan Soft Pretzels?

The total time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including rising time. However, hands-on prep takes only about 45 minutes!

Are Vegan Soft Pretzels healthy?

While they are a tasty snack, they should be enjoyed in moderation as they still contain flour and sugar. However, they can be made healthier by using whole grain flour.

Final Thoughts

These vegan soft pretzels are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or enjoyed with dips, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize them with different toppings or flavors!