Vegan Pretzel Recipe: Easy Homemade Soft Pretzels

Few things satisfy like a freshly baked pretzel — golden brown, soft inside, with that unmistakable chew and a sprinkle of coarse salt. If you think classic pretzels are off-limits on a vegan diet, think again!

Making vegan pretzels at home is easier than you might imagine, and the results are every bit as delicious as the originals. This recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners, offering a foolproof method that yields bakery-quality results in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend project, a crowd-pleasing snack, or a hearty base for creative sandwiches, these vegan pretzels deliver. With a few pantry staples and some simple steps, you’ll have soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible pretzels to enjoy warm from the oven.

Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to bring this classic comfort food into your plant-based kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Completely vegan: No eggs, dairy, or animal products—just pure plant-based comfort.
• Authentic taste and texture: These pretzels are soft on the inside, golden and chewy on the outside, with that classic pretzel flavor.
• Customizable: Top them with salt, seeds, or even cinnamon-sugar for a sweet twist.
• Simple ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
• Fun to make: Shaping pretzels is a rewarding kitchen project for adults and kids alike.
• Great for sharing: Perfect as snacks, party appetizers, or even sandwich bases.
• Freezer-friendly: Make a batch and freeze some for later—just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect batch of soft vegan pretzels:

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet (preferably lined with parchment paper or silicone mat)
• Large pot (for baking soda bath)
• Slotted spoon or spatula
• Pastry brush
• Wire rack (for cooling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the yeast:

   In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and brown sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes, until foamy.

2. Make the dough:

   Add melted vegan butter (or olive oil), salt, and 3 cups of the flour to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until combined.

3. Knead:

   Add the remaining flour, ½ cup at a time, until a soft but not sticky dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

   If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5 minutes.

4. First rise:

   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the pretzels:

   Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 8 equal pieces.

   Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long. Form each rope into a “U” shape, cross the ends over each other, and press onto the bottom of the “U” to form a classic pretzel shape.

6. Prepare the baking soda bath:

   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.

   Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 20–30 seconds, one or two at a time. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

   Tip: The baking soda bath is crucial for that authentic chewy crust and deep golden color!

7. Bake:

   Brush each pretzel with melted vegan butter or a little plant milk for shine. Sprinkle generously with coarse salt.

   Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until deep golden brown.

8. Cool and enjoy:

   Let pretzels cool on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes. Serve warm for the very best flavor and texture!

Tips & Variations

• Make ahead: You can shape the pretzels and refrigerate them overnight; let them come to room temperature before boiling and baking.
• Try different toppings: Swap coarse salt for sesame seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or poppy seeds. For sweet pretzels, brush with vegan butter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar after baking.
• Gluten-free option: Use a quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though texture may vary.
• Mini pretzels: Divide the dough into 16 pieces for bite-sized snacks.
• Pretzel buns: Shape into rolls to use for vegan burgers or sandwiches.
• Freezer friendly: Freeze baked pretzels in an airtight bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
• Flavorful dips: Serve with Lipton Vegetable Dip or creamy vegan bechamel sauce for a savory treat.

Pro tip: For extra shine, try brushing your pretzels with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) before baking. It gives a beautiful finish!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown for one standard-sized vegan pretzel (based on 8 pretzels per batch):

Note: Values are estimates and will vary depending on ingredients and size.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic snack: Serve warm with mustard or your favorite vegan cheese sauce.
• Pretzel sandwiches: Slice in half and fill with vegan deli slices, lettuce, and tomato for a satisfying lunch.
• Dips galore: Pair with Lipton Vegetable Dip, vegan bechamel sauce, or even spicy hummus.
• Soup sidekick: Enjoy alongside a hearty bowl of low calorie vegetable soup for a cozy meal.
• Sweet treat: Dust baked pretzels with cinnamon-sugar, or dip in melted vegan chocolate for dessert.
• Party appetizer: Make mini pretzels and serve with a trio of dips for your next gathering.

Conclusion

Homemade vegan pretzels are a true delight, bringing comfort, nostalgia, and delicious flavor to your kitchen—without any animal products. The process is fun and rewarding, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of fresh-baked bread.

Whether you stick to the classic salted version or experiment with sweet and savory toppings, these pretzels are sure to become a staple in your plant-based baking repertoire.

Don’t forget to get creative with dips and fillings—these pretzels pair beautifully with everything from classic party dips to creamy vegan sauces and even as the base for hearty sandwiches. If you’re hungry for more vegan baking inspiration, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or treat yourself to a slice of Vegetarian Date Cake for dessert.

Happy baking, and may your kitchen always smell like fresh pretzels!

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