
Soft on the inside, deeply bronzed and chewy on the outside, these homemade pretzel buns deliver that satisfying, bakery-style bite that's almost impossible to find without a trip to a specialty shop. The secret is a two-step process: baking soda is roasted in the oven first to boost its alkalinity, then dissolved into a simmering bath that gives each bun its signature mahogany crust and complex, slightly tangy flavor. A brush of beaten egg and a scatter of coarse salt before baking push them right over the top. For anyone avoiding seeds, store-bought pretzel rolls can be a minefield — sesame is one of the most common toppings, and cross-contact on shared bakery equipment is a real concern. Every ingredient here is straightforward and easy to verify: flour, yeast, butter, egg, salt, and water. No poppy seeds, no sesame, no hidden seed oils tucked into a glaze. These buns are genuinely spectacular piled with a burger, used for a deli-style sandwich, or eaten warm and plain straight off the cooling rack.
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Spread the baking soda in a thin layer on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour, then let cool completely. Baked baking soda is significantly more alkaline than raw baking soda and produces a deeper pretzel crust and flavor. Store any unused portion in an airtight container.
Combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer and let stand for 5 minutes, until foamy and fragrant.
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