Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 3 1/2 cups
- Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 teaspoons
- Warm water: 1 1/2 cups (105-115°F)
- Brown sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Baking soda: 1/2 cup
- Water: 8 cups
- Egg: 1 large (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and brown sugar in warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Step 2: Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a round loaf. With a sharp knife or kitchen shears, cut a circle out of the top of each loaf, leaving about 1 inch of bread at the bottom and sides to form a bowl. Remove the dough from the center and set aside for another use.
- Step 4: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Gently lower each bread bowl into the boiling water for 30 seconds per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 5: Whisk egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush the tops of the bread bowls with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt (optional).
- Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before filling with your favorite soup or dip.
Notes
- Store cooled pretzel bread bowls in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- To reheat, lightly spritz with water and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
- Serve these hearty bowls filled with creamy chili, French onion soup, or even a warm spinach and artichoke dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- For a richer color and enhanced pretzel flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of dark molasses to the dough mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American