How do I make lightning bolt pretzels?

Get a shockingly delicious experience with our recipe for Lightning Bolt Pretzels! These crispy, salty treats are perfect for movie nights and game days.

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I make Lightning Bolt Pretzels. Items include: all-purpose flour salt sugar active dry yeast warm water baking soda egg yolk water coarse salt

all-purpose flour 2 cups
salt 1 teaspoon
sugar 1 tablespoon
active dry yeast 1 packet
warm water 1 cup
baking soda 1/4 cup
egg yolk 1
water 1 tablespoon
coarse salt to taste

Take note
CAUTION: This recipe may cause sudden cravings and excessive snacking. Proceed at your own risk!

1

Prepare the pretzel dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. In a separate small bowl, dissolve 1 packet of active dry yeast in 1 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a ball of dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

2

Shape the pretzels

Divide the dough into roughly 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20 inches in length. Working one at a time, shape the ropes into lightning bolt shapes by forming a loop at the top and twisting the ends. Place the shaped pretzels onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3

Give them a salty zap

Fill a large pot with 6 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the boiling water (be careful, it will fizz!). Gently lower the pretzels, one by one, into the boiling water using a slotted spoon. Let them simmer for 30 seconds, then carefully remove them from the water and place them back on the baking sheet.

4

Bake to golden perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash over the pretzels, then sprinkle them with coarse salt. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.

5

Enjoy the shockingly good results

Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before devouring them. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce or simply enjoy them as is. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more!