How to Make Authentic German Soft Pretzels in a Wood-Fired Oven

Soft pretzels are a beloved treat worldwide, with their golden-brown crust, soft and chewy texture, and signature salty topping. If you’re looking for an authentic German soft pretzel recipe baked in a wood-fired oven, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe keeps things simple—no preservatives, artificial ingredients, or unnecessary fats—just pure, delicious flavor.

Ingredients

(Makes 2 Large Pretzels)

• 2 cups bread flour
• 3 tablespoons spelt flour
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon dry yeast
• ¾ cup water (room temperature)
• 3 quarts water (for boiling bath)
• 1 egg + 1 teaspoon water (for egg wash)
• 1 teaspoon kosher or coarse sea salt (for topping)
• Parchment paper (for rising and baking)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, spelt flour, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and yeast.
2. Next, create a well in the center and pour in the water.
3. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to mix until everything is well incorporated.
4. After mixing, knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.
5. Once done, cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 20-30 minutes.

Step 2: Knead and Proof the Dough

1. Continue by kneading the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and elastic.
2. Form it into a thick rope, then let it rest for 1-2 hours under cover.
3. To strengthen the gluten structure, stretch and fold the dough.
4. Finally, allow it to rest again for another 1 hour.

Step 3: Heat Your Wood-Fired Oven

1. Begin building your fire about 2 hours before baking to achieve even heat.
2. Keep the flames to one side, rotating the fire every 20 minutes.
3. Before placing the pretzels inside, push the hot coals to the back and brush away any ashes.
4. The oven should hold a steady heat with a glowing bed of coals and no active flames.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzels

1. Start by rolling the dough into a 3-foot rope, then cut it into two equal pieces.
2. Next, roll each piece into a 27-inch rope.
3. Shape them into the classic pretzel form by twisting and looping the ends.
4. Finally, place the pretzels on parchment paper and let them rise for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Boil & Coat the Pretzels

1. Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil in a deep pan.
2. Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling water for 40 seconds per side.
3. Once removed, place them on a wire rack to drain.
4. Brush each pretzel twice with an egg wash for a golden finish.
5. Lastly, sprinkle with kosher salt for the perfect crunch.

Step 6: Bake in a Wood-Fired Oven

1. Arrange the pretzels on parchment paper and slide them 8 inches from the coals.
2. Close the oven door completely to trap the heat.
3. After 7 minutes, carefully rotate them.
4. Bake for another 7-8 minutes until golden brown.
5. Allow them to cool for about 1 hour before serving.

Enjoy Freshly Baked Wood-Fired Pretzels!

More Delicious Wood-Fired Recipes!

Download the Belforno Wood-Fired Pizza Cookbook for more wood-fired recipes, tips, and inspiration. From tasty bacon-wrapped turkey to perfectly roasted potatoes, we have a recipe for every craving.

About Belforno Wood-Fired Ovens

At Belforno, we manufacture authentic wood-fired pizza ovens inspired by Italian tradition. Crafted using the finest refractory ceramic materials, our ovens retain heat for long periods, ensuring superior cooking results. Delivered as ready-to-assemble kits, they’re perfect for residential, commercial, and outdoor use.