Homemade Peanut Butter Pretzels
These soft, homemade peanut butter pretzels combine the perfect savory-sweet balance in one delicious snack. Perfect for busy families looking for a special treat that's better than store-bought versions.
Ingredients
- For the pretzel dough
- 1 cup warm water (110-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- For the water bath:
- 8 cups water
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- For topping:
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until combined
- Gradually add remaining flour, mixing until dough forms a soft ball that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 3-5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, make the filling by combining peanut butter, powdered sugar, and honey in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a rectangle about 3x5 inches. Place 1 tablespoon of peanut butter filling in the center, leaving edges clear.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pinching edges to seal completely. Shape into a pretzel or twist as desired
- Carefully place pretzels one at a time into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Brush each pretzel with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before enjoying. The peanut butter filling will be hot!
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the peanut butter filling.
These pretzels are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore softness.
For a sweet version, drizzle cooled pretzels with melted chocolate.
Ensure your filling is completely sealed inside the dough to prevent leaking during baking