Chocolate Chip Soft Pretzels are a delightful twist on the classic soft pretzel, combining the chewy texture of pretzels with sweet chocolate chips. These treats are perfect for dessert or a fun snack, and they can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. The combination of sweet and salty makes them irresistible!
Ingredients List
For the Soft Pretzels
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Timing
Preparing Chocolate Chip Soft Pretzels takes about 15 minutes for prep, 1 hour for rising, and 20-25 minutes for baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add Water: Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Pretzels
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape the Pretzels: Roll each piece into a long rope (about 24 inches) and shape it into a pretzel by forming a loop and twisting the ends together. Place shaped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Boil the Pretzels
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring about 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
- Boil the Pretzels: Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with Sea Salt: While the pretzels are still wet, sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.
Step 4: Bake the Pretzels
- Bake: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before brushing with melted butter.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional)
- Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
- Coat the Pretzels: While the pretzels are still warm, brush them with melted butter and then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
Step 6: Serve
- Enjoy: Serve the chocolate chip soft pretzels warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Chocolate Chip Soft Pretzels (per pretzel, assuming 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Tips for Customization
- Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a chocolate sauce or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Chocolate Chip Soft Pretzels are best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to restore their softness.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Soft Pretzels are a fun and delicious treat that combines the chewy goodness of soft pretzels with sweet chocolate. These pretzels are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and make for a delightful snack or dessert!
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Can I freeze the pretzels?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped pretzels before boiling. When ready to bake, boil them directly from the freezer, adding a minute to the boiling time.
What can I serve with these pretzels?
These pretzels pair well with a variety of dips, such as chocolate sauce, peanut butter, or even a sweet cream cheese dip.
Chocolate Chip Soft Pretzels Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Soft Pretzels
- • 4 cups all-purpose flour
- • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- • 1 teaspoon salt
- • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- • 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- • Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
- • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- For the Topping
- • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add Water: Gradually add the warm water to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Pretzels
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape the Pretzels: Roll each piece into a long rope (about 24 inches) and shape it into a pretzel by forming a loop and twisting the ends together. Place shaped pretzels on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Boil the Pretzels
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: In a large pot, bring about 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda.
- Boil the Pretzels: Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with Sea Salt: While the pretzels are still wet, sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.
Step 4: Bake the Pretzels
- Bake: Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before brushing with melted butter.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional)
- Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
- Coat the Pretzels: While the pretzels are still warm, brush them with melted butter and then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top.
Step 6: Serve
- Enjoy: Serve the chocolate chip soft pretzels warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own or with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping.
