"Ultimate Guide to Making Auntie Anne's Pretzels Copycat Recipe at Home: A Step-by-Step Journey to Perfect Soft Pretzels"

#### Auntie Anne's Pretzels Copycat RecipeIf you’ve ever craved the delicious, soft pretzels from Auntie Anne's but didn’t want to venture out to the mall……

#### Auntie Anne's Pretzels Copycat Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the delicious, soft pretzels from Auntie Anne's but didn’t want to venture out to the mall, you’re in luck! This Auntie Anne's Pretzels Copycat Recipe is your ticket to recreating those iconic pretzels right in your own kitchen. Whether you want to enjoy them as a snack, serve them at a party, or indulge in a homemade treat, this recipe will guide you through every step of the process.

#### Ingredients You'll Need

To start your journey, gather the following ingredients:

- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)

- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)

- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- ½ cup baking soda

- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)

- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

- Optional: melted butter for brushing

These ingredients are simple and likely found in your pantry, making this recipe accessible for anyone eager to whip up some pretzels.

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

2. **Make the Dough:** Gradually add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

3. **Let It Rise:** Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

4. **Shape the Pretzels:** Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then twist it into a pretzel shape.

5. **Prepare the Baking Soda Bath:** In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. This step gives the pretzels their signature texture and flavor.

6. **Bake the Pretzels:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once out of the oven, brush the pretzels with melted butter for an extra touch of flavor. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as cheese sauce, mustard, or even a sweet cinnamon dip.

#### Tips for Perfect Pretzels

- **Don’t Skip the Baking Soda Bath:** This is crucial for achieving that classic pretzel taste and texture.

- **Experiment with Flavors:** Feel free to add toppings like garlic powder, cheese, or cinnamon sugar for a twist on the traditional recipe.

- **Storage:** If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain their softness.

With this Auntie Anne's Pretzels Copycat Recipe, you can enjoy the warm, buttery goodness of soft pretzels anytime you want. It’s a fun and rewarding cooking project that’s perfect for family gatherings, movie nights, or just a cozy day at home. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress your friends and family with your homemade pretzel skills!