• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Kudos Kitchen by Renee

menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • About
    • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Appetizers and Snacks Recipes

    Published: Oct 4, 2023 by Renée · This post may contain affiliate links · 10 Comments

    Soft Pretzel Rods (No-Boil Method)

    Jump to Recipe
    A Pinterest image for No-Boil Soft Pretzel Rods along with a title text.

    Did you know you can make big, Soft Pretzel Rods without dipping the dough in a hot baking soda bath? You can, and it's an easy method without the mess or hassle.

    A bunch of golden brown Soft Pretzel Rods with everything seasoning in a basket with a mustard dipping sauce.

    The no-boil method of making soft pretzels has served me well, so now I'm passing on this well-kept secret to you! The results are tried and true, with the same wonderful flavor you've come to expect from a traditional German soft, plump, golden-brown pretzel.

    This recipe post and its contents may include affiliate links for your consideration. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, but your prices are never increased as a result. Thank you.

    Table of Contents Found Here
    • The ingredients:
    • Ingredient information:
    • Recommended kitchen tools and equipment:
    • What is the difference between active dry yeast and rapid-rise yeast?
    • Are active dry yeast and rapid-rise yeast interchangeable?
    • How to know if dry yeast is still active:
    • What does the baking soda/water wash do?
    • How many soft pretzel rods does this recipe make?
    • What's the difference between pretzel rods and pretzel sticks?
    • Can this recipe be used to make traditional soft pretzel shapes?
    • How long does this recipe take from start to finish?
    • Where is the best place in the kitchen to proof bread dough?
    • How to know when bread dough is adequately proofed?
    • Can coarse salt be used as a topping instead of everything seasoning?
    • Can the egg wash step be skipped?
    • Optional soft pretzel topping suggestions:
    • To dip or not to dip? That is the question!
    • Renee's top tips for soft pretzel success:
    • Additional "everything seasoning" recipes:
    • Printable Recipe Card
    • Please comment if you've made this recipe.

    Subscribe to my Kudos Kitchen channel on YouTube. IT'S FREE!! Thanks, and I can't wait to see you there!!

    The ingredients:

    *Please note that the exact measurements along with a "shop the recipe" feature from Instacart and Walmart is available inside the printable recipe card.

    instacart logo
    Walmart logo
    A visual ingredient list for making no-boil Soft Pretzel Rods.

    Ingredient information:

    WARM WATER - Not too hot. Not too cold. The water temperature needs to be juuust right (between 110-115 degrees Fahrenheit) for the yeast to be able to do its thing. The water temperature is best determined with an instant-read thermometer, so it's a wise investment that costs little money if you don't have one.

    INSTANT DRY YEAST - Did you know a yeast packet contains 2¼ tablespoons of dry yeast? You can use one packet of dry active yeast for this recipe, or if you purchase yeast in a jar, measure 2¼ teaspoons and carry on. More about yeast below.

    BROWN SUGAR - Although there is only a touch, the brown sugar in this recipe gives the pretzels a rich, deep flavor that only brown sugar can provide. You can use either dark or light brown sugar. I typically use dark brown sugar, which has more molasses than light brown sugar.

    HONEY - The one tablespoon of honey called for in this recipe (along with the brown sugar) is what the active dry yeast will snack on as the fermentation process builds those much-coveted bubbles and foam that will give rise to the dough.

    HEAVY CREAM - This ingredient will enrich the soft pretzel dough, giving it more flavor and texture. Half and half may be substituted for the heavy cream if needed.

    EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL - You'll notice that the pretzel dough isn't overly sticky, thanks in part to the olive oil. I urge you to use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor, but any oil will work in this recipe.

    KOSHER SALT - Always. I use Coarse kosher salt for all my recipes, baking, and cooking. However, table salt may be used if desired. *Note - Since the grains of kosher salt are larger than table salt grains, if using table salt, please cut back the salt called for in this recipe by half.

    BAKING SODA - When you add this to the hot water for the baking soda brush, it will bubble and foam quite a bit. This is a good thing and proves that you're baking soda is fresh. The baking soda brush on the pretzels will cause the outside of the dough to toughen ever so slightly to give the soft pretzels their characteristic bite and chewiness.

    EGG - Don't skip this step if you're looking for the deep, rich color. The protein in the egg causes the beautiful color transformation from a standard golden brown to that deep and wonderful pretzel hue we all know and love.

    EVERYTHING SEASONING - Feel free to use whatever brand of everything seasoning you prefer, or you can even make your own at home. I added some kosher salt to mine to give the finished pretzels that salty, but not overly salty, flavor you come to expect from soft pretzels.

    Recommended kitchen tools and equipment:

    INSTANT READ THERMOMETER - An invaluable tool for checking that the water temperature is between 110- and 115 degrees Fahrenheit.

    STAND MIXER WITH DOUGH HOOK - I don't know about you, but I'm all for kitchen tools that make my job in the kitchen easier. A stand mixer with a dough hook makes easy, hands-off work of kneading this soft pretzel dough with minimal effort on my part.

    Of course, if you want the whole hands-on experience, by all means, hand-knead the dough. It will give you a good cardio workout.

    BENCH SCRAPER - This is handy for cutting the dough log into 1-inch pieces.

    PLASTIC WRAP - I like using plastic wrap instead of a kitchen towel to cover the dough bowl for proofing. It's very satisfying to see the plastic puff and get cloudy from the warm air moisture to let you know things are going according to plan.

    PASTRY BRUSH - You'll use this when brushing on the baking soda, water, and egg wash.

    KITCHEN SCALE - If you prefer to weigh your ingredients, by all means, use a kitchen scale. Within the recipe card, there is a button you can push for handy metric conversions for your convenience.

    Shop my recommended products at my Kudos Kitchen Store

    What is the difference between active dry yeast and rapid-rise yeast?

    Active dry yeast and rapid-rise yeast are processed differently, with the active dry yeast being dried slowly with a protective layer that coats the yeast cells, making them activate slower.

    A rapid-rise yeast activates quickly because the protective layer has not been added to the yeast cells, allowing the rapid-rise yeast to work faster.

    Active dry yeast must also be activated in a warm water solution, whereas rapid-rise yeast can be added directly to the dry ingredients.

    Are active dry yeast and rapid-rise yeast interchangeable?

    Most times, yes, but I suggest using active dry yeast for this recipe and not rapid rise.

    How to know if dry yeast is still active:

    If the yeast gets foamy after mixing with the warm water and sugar, it's active. If it doesn't, it's inactive and will lead you down a path of disappointment.

    Yeast has a shelf life, so make sure the yeast you use hasn't been sitting in the cupboard for too long.

    What does the baking soda/water wash do?

    It gives the chewy outer crust and flavor that soft pretzels are characteristically known for.

    How many soft pretzel rods does this recipe make?

    Sixteen 6-inch pretzel rods, but feel free to make yours longer or shorter than what you see here. However, upon doing so, please be aware that the baking time and the nutrition information listed in the recipe card will undoubtedly vary.

    Save this for later.

    We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!

    Email forwarding service for saving information.

    What's the difference between pretzel rods and pretzel sticks?

    Pretzel rods (such as these) are longer and thicker than pretzel sticks you can purchase at a store. Pretzel sticks are crispy and crunchy.

    Soft pretzel rods are also just that. Soft.

    Can this recipe be used to make traditional soft pretzel shapes?

    Yes, have fun and go wild with your shaping. Since you won't be boiling your soft pretzels, there is no worry of misshapen and slippery, hard-to-handle pretzel dough that often happens during the boiling process.

    A closeup of the inside of a Soft Pretzel Rod with a bit taken out and a bowl of mustard.

    How long does this recipe take from start to finish?

    With two proofing times, the first for 60 minutes and the second for 30 minutes, along with the prep and bake time, these will take approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

    Where is the best place in the kitchen to proof bread dough?

    I like to preheat my oven to the lowest setting (170 degrees) for five minutes and then turn the oven off and keep the door closed while preparing the dough. It's also best to have the rack placed in the center of the oven.

    When the dough is ready for proofing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the warm (not hot) oven.

    You can also proof the pretzel dough in the warmest spot in your kitchen if the oven method of proofing proves to be inconvenient. Just make sure to cover the bowl with plastic wrap to avoid drafts.

    How to know when bread dough is adequately proofed?

    If, when you press your knuckle into the dough, the dough springs back slightly but not entirely (you can still see a slight indentation), you are ready to go.

    Can coarse salt be used as a topping instead of everything seasoning?

    Sure thing. I've made them both ways, and they're both delicious!

    Can the egg wash step be skipped?

    It can, but I don't recommend it. The egg wash will give your pretzels that deep, dark, almost mahogany color that is so cravable in a soft pretzel.

    Optional soft pretzel topping suggestions:

    I'd never say no to a topping of cinnamon sugar, would you?

    Or, for more savory ideas, why not sprinkle on some garlic or onion powder, dry ranch dressing mix, dried basil or oregano, or even some nutritional yeast for a boost of cheesy flavor and added nutrition?

    To dip or not to dip? That is the question!

    The choice is yours. You'll notice in the pictures that I used a whole grain mustard that I mixed with a touch of honey. A ranch dip or beer cheese dip would also be an excellent choice.

    You can use whatever type of dip you like or eat the pretzels sans dip.

    Either way, I promise you'll be happy with your choice.

    Renee's top tips for soft pretzel success:

    Use an instant-read thermometer to check the water temperature before adding the yeast. Too hot or too cold will kill the yeast, rendering it useless.

    Always ensure the yeast is active (foamy) before continuing with the recipe.

    Cover the bowl with plastic wrap during proofing. This ensures that the fermentation gasses produced from the yeast get trapped in the bowl and will help facilitate the proofing process.

    The no-boil baking soda and water hack is a game-changer. Please give it a try and let me know what you think.

    Additional "everything seasoning" recipes:

    If you think everything seasoning is just for bagels…think again! The best Homemade Everything Seasoning Blend can, and should, be used on just about everything!

    Baked Chicken Thighs with Everything-Seasoning is a super simple and quick cooking meal. This delicious dish is also economical, tender, and oh-so flavorful!

    Beware! These homemade Everything Bagel Chips are so crunchy and so addicting that you won't be able to step away. Please proceed with the utmost caution! 

    Everything English Muffin Bread is…wait for it…wait for it…EVERYTHING! No surprise there, I suppose. LOL

    A bunch of golden-brown Soft Pretzel Rods in a basket with a glass of beer and some mustard in the background.

    Printable Recipe Card

    Soft Pretzel Rods sprinkled with everything seasoning along with a dish of mustard.

    Soft Pretzel Rods (no-boil method)

    Renee Goerger
    The results of these soft pretzel rods are tried and true, with the same wonderful flavor you've come to expect from a traditional German soft, plump, golden-brown, chewy pretzel, but without that pesky baking soda boiling.
    Have you made this recipe?Please Comment and Rate
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save recipe Save this recipe
    Prep Time 20 minutes mins
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    proofing time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins
    Total Time 2 hours hrs 5 minutes mins
    Course Appetizer, savory snacks, Yeast Bread
    Cuisine German
    Servings 16 servings
    Calories 143 kcal

    Equipment

    • stand mixer optional
    • Mixing Bowls
    • liquid measuring cup
    • instant read thermometer
    • baking sheets
    • parchment paper
    • measuring cups and spoons
    • kitchen scale
    • pastry brush
    • whisk
    • kitchen timer
    • oven gloves
    • plastic wrap

    Ingredients
     
     

    To make the soft pretzel dough:

    • ½ cup warm water, plus an additional 3 tablespoons, if needed. (110 - 115 degrees F)
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar light or dark will work
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 2¼ teaspoons (1 package) active dry yeast
    • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
    • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil plus, additional for oiling the bowl
    • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 3 - 3½ cups all-purpose flour

    To make the baking soda/water wash:

    • 1 cup very hot water
    • 2 heaping tablespoons baking soda

    To make the egg wash and topping:

    • 1 large egg beaten
    • 2 tablespoon everything bagel seasoning
    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions
     

    Preheat the oven to 170-degrees Fahrenheit and then turn the oven off while preparing the dough.

      To bloom the yeast:

      • Dissolve the yeast in ½ cup of warm water, brown sugar, and honey in a small bowl. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-7 minutes until it gets foamy. *Note - if this doesn't happen the yeast may no longer be active, or the water is too hot, and the pretzels won't rise.

      To make the soft pretzel dough:

      • Once the yeast is foamy, add the heavy cream, olive oil, and salt. Whisk to combine.
      • Pour the yeast mixture to the bowl of a stand mixer and add in two cups of the flour, stirring with a wooden spoon to form a rough, shaggy dough.
      • Add the bowl and its contents onto the stand mixer and add in 1 additional cup of flour. Use the dough hook to incorporate the final cup of flour until a smooth dough ball forms on the hook. *Note - if needed, add additional warm water to the dough in the bowl (1 tablespoon at a time) until the mixture comes together into a fully incorporated dough ball. Continue kneading on the stand mixer (with the dough hook) for an additional 5 minutes.
      • Turn the kneaded dough out onto a lightly floured countertop and knead, by hand, to form the dough into a smooth sphere.
      • Brush a small amount of olive oil (½ teaspoon) into the bowl and up the sides and then return the dough ball to the bowl, brushing the top of the dough with the remaining oil left on the pastry brush.
      • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and allow the dough to proof (rise) until double in volume in the warm oven with the door closed for 60 minutes.
      • After 60 minutes time, remove the plastic wrap and punch the dough down to deflate. Turn the dough out onto the countertop and work it into an approximate 16" log by squeezing and rolling.
      • Cut the dough into 1" pieces until you have 16 pieces of cut pretzel dough. Roll each piece of dough into a rod approximately 6" long and place the rods onto parchment lined baking sheets. Continue the process with the remaining dough.
      • Allow the pretzel rods to proof again for 30 minutes.
      • Meanwhile preheat the oven to 400℉ (205℃)

      To make the pretzel toppings:

      • Mix together the everything seasoning with the kosher salt and set aside.
      • After the pretzel rods have proofed for the second time, whisk together 1 cup of very hot water with 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a medium bowl. Use a pastry brush to liberally brush each rod with the baking soda mixture.
      • Use the pastry brush to then brush each pretzel rod with the beaten egg.
      • Sprinkle each pretzel rod with the everything seasoning and bake the pretzels in the oven for 10-12 minutes until the pretzels are a deep golden brown.
      • Remove the pretzels and allow them to cool on a cooling rack for at least 5-7 minutes before carefully removing them from the baking sheet.
      • Serve warm or at room temperature and with a dipping sauce of your choice.

      Video

      Notes

      Store pretzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
      Pretzels may be frozen in an airtight freezer container or bag for up to 3 months.
      To reheat wrap the pretzels loosely in paper towels and reheat in the microwave on medium power or reheat them (uncovered) in a 325-degree oven (or air fryer) for 3-5 minutes, or until warm.

      Nutrition

      Serving: 1servingCalories: 143kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.001gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 664mgPotassium: 44mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 45IUVitamin C: 0.02mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

      I sincerely hope you've enjoyed today's delicious no-boil everything soft pretzel rods as much as I've enjoyed bringing them to you!

      A splayed-out bunch of Soft Pretzel Rods in a basked with a small bowl of mustard in the center.

      Should you have any questions or comments regarding anything you've seen on my site, please don't hesitate to reach out to contact me. It is always my distinct pleasure to get back with you just as soon as I possibly can!

      Thank you so much for visiting me today in my Kudos Kitchen. I hope you found something you'll love and that you will come back and visit me often. Please know that there is always room for you around my kitchen table!

      Please don't forget to like and follow me across all of my SM channels, and while you're at it stop by and say hello! I'll be looking for you! 🙂

      FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, TIKTOK, YOUTUBE, KUDOS AMAZON SHOPPING,

      and PINTEREST

      Until we eat again, I hope you have a delicious day!

      Selfie of Renee of Kudos Kitchen by Renee
      Custom Renee Signature

      More Appetizers and Snacks Recipes

      • Delicious looking homemade peanut and cashew butter on a crusty slice of bread.
        Roasted Peanut and Cashew Butter
      • Delicious golden brown zucchini carrot fritters on a platter.
        Savory Zucchini Carrot Fritters
      • Skewered beef flank steak on a platter topped with chimichurri sauce.
        Grilled Flank Steak Skewers with Cilantro Chimichurri
      • Golden brown Japanese Fried Chicken Nuggets in a white bowl.
        Japanese Fried Chicken Nuggets

      Reader Interactions

      Comments

        5 from 4 votes

        Please tell me what you think... Cancel reply

        Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

        Recipe Rating




        By submitting this comment you agree to share your name, email address, website and IP address with Kudos Kitchen by Renee. This information will not be used for any purpose other than enabling you to post a comment. *

      1. Robyn says

        March 26, 2025 at 1:13 pm

        5 stars
        Just adding to my last question…the dough does rise and they bake just okay…I don’t know how to send pics but I’ve got them

        Reply
        • Renée says

          March 27, 2025 at 9:04 am

          No problems about not being able to send photos.
          I'm using my imagination to picture those happy little faces!
          🙂
          Renee

          Reply
      2. Robyn says

        March 26, 2025 at 12:34 pm

        5 stars
        Hi Renee
        Yup still making these yummy fabulous delicious (you get it) pretzel sticks and still loving them!
        Here’s my question..even after all the times I’ve done it sometimes when too many little hands (yes grandkids) want to help I’ve put the salt into the yeast mixture…I can tell by the dough it’s not quite right but do I need to toss the dough snd start again? Guessing you get that I’ve done that a couple of times but hoping this time is the last!
        Thank you again for giving us a family cooking project that is quite yummy

        Reply
        • Renée says

          March 27, 2025 at 9:02 am

          Hi, Robyn!!
          First I have to say thank you for making these pretzel rods so many times, and second, I'm so happy you're baking with your grandkids. Priceless.
          Yes, unfortunately adding the salt in with the yeast definitely inhibits the fermentation of the yeast decreasing the amount of rise
          you'll achieve. I'm sure little hands are eager to help and can sometimes jump the gun. No worries. Now's a great time to explain a
          bit about food science to the littles and why it's important to follow certain steps (depending on their age, of course) and their order.
          Our granddaughter is turning 1 next month and I can't wait for the days I get to share time in the kitchen with her. I'm sure
          we'll be making messes and having our our fair share of recipe miss-steps.
          I'm so thrilled that this recipe is one you've have been enjoying with your grandkids.
          p.s. Thanks for the 5 star rating, also!! 🙂
          Fondly,
          Renee

          Reply
      3. Lynda says

        March 17, 2024 at 1:48 pm

        What can I use instead of everything bagels? Sounds very interesting.

        Reply
        • Renée says

          March 17, 2024 at 3:44 pm

          Hi, Lynda!
          Thanks for asking. You're only limited by your imagination here.
          What about dry BBQ seasoning, kosher salt, melted butter (after they come out of the oven), sesame seeds,
          celery seed, caraway seed, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon/sugar, sanding sugar, colored sugar,
          sprinkles...
          I could probably list a bunch more given the time. I hope these suggestions helped spark an inspiration for you.
          Take good care,
          Renee

          Reply
      4. Robyn says

        January 08, 2024 at 8:42 am

        5 stars
        I haven’t secreted away baked goods in eons BUT these were the exception! After they came out of the oven after 1 bite I told the family the recipe only made 8…‍♀️ the rest are for me! Easy delicious and a must make. I’ve got a quick question though in the final 30 minute ride when they are rolled into logs, do you cover and should they double in size.???

        Reply
        • Renée says

          January 08, 2024 at 9:54 am

          Hi, Robyn!
          Too funny, and I completely understand!! lol
          Regarding the second proof, you don't need to cover them (I didn't)
          but it wouldn't hurt anything if you did (a damp paper towel would by my suggestion).
          And no, they won't double in size, but they will get a tiny bit bigger. Not much.
          I hope this helps.
          Enjoy those pretzels and thanks for the wonderful comment and 5-star review!
          Have a great day!!
          Renee

          Reply
      5. Linda Rasmer says

        October 06, 2023 at 9:05 pm

        5 stars
        I made this recipe today. Not sure to call it soft pretzel or bread stick. I followed the recipe except dipped the pretzel in the baking soda bath and then brushed with the egg. Served the pretzel with butternut squash and broccoli soup. These were great and can’t wait to have the rest as a snack.

        Reply
        • Renée says

          October 07, 2023 at 7:20 am

          Hi, Linda.
          No matter what you choose to call them, I'm glad you settled on "delicious!"
          Thanks for the 5-star review and your thoughtful comment.
          Enjoy the leftovers.
          p.s. your soup sounds amazing.
          Fondly,
          Renee

          Reply

      Primary Sidebar

      Renee of Kudos Kitchen by Renee holding a cast iron skillet cornbread.

      Hi, I'm Renee! I've been a passionate home cook for over 40 years. I specialize in easy-to-make comfort food dishes from appetizers to desserts and everything in between.

      More →

      Fast and Easy Dinners

      • A salsa sloppy joe sandwich in a small cast iron skillet with avocado slices and a sesame seed bun.
        Salsa Sloppy Joes
      • A stack of Burrito Dogs with some ketchup and mustard in the background.
        Burrito Dogs (aka Dogs in a Blanket)
      • Four Caprese Sausage Sandwiches on a platter with tomatoes and fresh basil.
        Caprese Sausage Sandwich
      • A stack to Burgerdillas on a wooden cutting board.
        Burgerdillas - Burgers in Tortillas

      Footer

      ↑ back to top

      About

      • Privacy Policy

      Newsletter

      • Sign Up! for emails and updates

      Contact

      • Contact
      • Media Kit

      As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. When I find a great product or service I like to share it with my readers. For additional information please view my privacy policy.

      Copyright © 2025 Kudos Kitchen by Renee

      86 shares
      • Pinterest
      • 4Facebook
      • Email
      • Save
      • Flipboard
      • Threads
      • Messenger
      • Bluesky

      Recipe Ratings

      Something went wrong. Please try again.