She Strengthens

Homemade Soft Pretzel Rolls: A Ballpark Classic

Recreate the magic of ballpark-style soft pretzel rolls in the comfort of your own kitchen. This beginner-friendly recipe yields eight delicious, malty-flavored rolls perfect for snacking, dipping, or toasting.

The Secret to Authentic Flavor

The key to achieving that signature pretzel taste lies in a simple yet crucial step: a baking soda solution bath before baking. This clever trick gives your homemade rolls an unmistakable ballpark flavor.

Getting Started

Begin by combining warm water and active dry yeast in a stand mixer bowl. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes, or until it begins to bubble. Meanwhile, prepare a large mixing bowl by coating it with a thin layer of vegetable oil.

Mixing the Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together bread flour, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Once the yeast is ready, attach a dough hook to the mixer and gradually add the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together, then increase to medium speed and mix until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.

Rising and Shaping

Form the dough into a ball, place it in the oiled mixing bowl, and cover with a damp towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 30-35 minutes. Next, punch down the dough and knead it on a floured surface until smooth. Divide the dough into 8 pieces and shape into oblong rolls.

The Baking Soda Solution

Heat 6 cups of water to a boil in a large saucepan and add 1/4 cup of baking soda. The water will foam slightly. Boil 2-3 rolls for 2 minutes per side, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with salt and repeat with the remaining rolls.

Baking to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Once all the rolls are prepared, bake them until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Try serving your freshly baked soft pretzel rolls with a side of Sweet Hot Mustard or toasted in a grilled cheese sandwich. Experiment with different toppings or seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.