Soft Pretzels from Epcot’s Biergarten Restaurant
Introduction
This delightful recipe for soft pretzels comes from the Biergarten Restaurant at Epcot, a beloved spot known for its German cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. After experiencing these delectable pretzels myself, I was thrilled to find the recipe shared in the Orlando Sentinel, and I couldn’t wait to share it with all of you. These pretzels are perfect for lunch or as a snack, making them not only delicious but also a fun cooking project for kids. Their chewy texture, combined with a sprinkle of coarse salt and a dip in mustard, is simply irresistible.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200.4 |
| Total Fat | 1.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 42.3 mg |
| Sodium | 248.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 38.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 0.6 g |
| Protein | 6.7 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | active dry yeast |
| 1 1/2 cups | warm water |
| 1 teaspoon | salt |
| 1 tablespoon | sugar |
| 4 cups | all-purpose flour |
| 2 | eggs |
| 2 tablespoons | water |
| coarse salt (for sprinkling) | |
| prepared mustard (for dipping) |
Preparation and Cooking Times
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 hour 30 minutes | 12 minutes | 1 hour 42 minutes |
Instructions
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Activate the Yeast: Begin by stirring and dissolving the active dry yeast in warm water in a large mixing bowl. Ensure that the water temperature is between 110°F and 115°F for optimal yeast activation.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Add the salt, sugar, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir thoroughly until well combined, and then beat until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
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Form the Dough: Gradually stir in enough of the remaining flour until the dough becomes easy to handle. The amount of flour required may vary slightly depending on humidity and other factors.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for approximately 5 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing the gluten, which gives the pretzels their characteristic chewiness.
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Shape the Pretzels: After kneading, cut the dough into 3 oz pieces. Roll each piece into a ball, and then allow them to rest for about 10 minutes to relax the gluten.
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Form the Pretzel Shape: Roll out each dough ball into a long string, approximately 24 inches in length. To form the pretzel, twist the dough in the middle and then pick up the ends with both hands, attaching them to the center to create the classic pretzel shape.
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Proof the Pretzels: Place the shaped pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, allowing them to proof until they are approximately double in thickness. This should take about 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Egg Wash: While the pretzels are proofing, whisk together the eggs and water in a small bowl. This egg wash will give the pretzels a beautiful, glossy finish.
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Brush and Season: After the pretzels have proofed, gently brush the tops with the egg wash. Be careful not to deflate them. Sprinkle coarse salt generously over the top of each pretzel.
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Bake the Pretzels: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, bake the pretzels for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have a delightful aroma.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, with a side of prepared mustard for dipping, if desired.
Conclusion
These soft pretzels are a wonderful treat that brings a taste of Epcot right into your home. Perfectly chewy on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether enjoyed as a snack or paired with a hearty soup or salad for lunch, they are a delicious way to bring a bit of magic to your kitchen. Happy baking!
