If you have ever craved a snack that is irresistibly chewy, delightfully golden, and perfectly paired with a tangy dip you’ll want to keep coming back to, then this Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. Crafted with care using gluten-free flour and elevated by a luscious honey mustard dipping sauce, these pretzels are as comforting as they are satisfying. Whether you’re new to gluten-free baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises a fun and rewarding baking experience that fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and your taste buds with pure joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each item plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and color that make these pretzels stand out. The beauty lies in their simplicity—nothing complicated, just thoughtful selections that come together beautifully.
- 2 ½ cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour: Use a reliable blend like Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 with xanthan gum for structure and elasticity.
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast: SAF Red Label ensures a strong rise and that classic fluffy interior.
- 1 cup warm water (105–115°F): The perfect temperature to awaken the yeast without killing it.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute: Swerve Brown adds subtle sweetness necessary to activate the yeast without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon table salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness, key for that savory pretzel goodness.
- 2 tablespoons baking soda: Used in the boiling step to give pretzels their signature chewy crust.
- 1 large egg: For the egg wash, providing a shiny, golden finish.
- 1 tablespoon water: Mixed with egg to create a smooth wash to evenly coat the pretzels.
- â…“ cup yellow mustard: The base of the honey mustard dipping sauce, delivering tang and bite.
- 2 tablespoons monkfruit syrup: Adds natural sweetness to balance the mustard’s acidity without refined sugar.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brings brightness and depth to the dipping sauce.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, luscious texture in the honey mustard dip.
How to Make Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Knead the Gluten-Free Dough
Start by gently kneading the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes. This isn’t just any gentle knead — this step is your secret weapon to create elasticity and allow the dough to hold gas bubbles, which means rise and chewiness. The dough should feel elastic yet slightly tacky, so don’t hold back on those comforting, repetitive folds and stretches.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Transfer the dough ball to an oiled bowl and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Place in a warm spot to rest for approximately 1 hour. You’re looking for the dough to double in size and develop those charming little air bubbles under the surface, which tell you the yeast is happily doing its work. This rise is what makes your pretzels wonderfully airy inside.
Step 3: Shape the Pretzels
Once risen, divide the dough into equal portions and roll each into long ropes. Form these into classic pretzel shapes with a simple twist and fold. Consistency matters here—aim for even thickness throughout so every bite cooks perfectly. This shaping part is where homemade charm really shines, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Step 4: Baking Soda Bath
Bring a pot of water to a simmer and add the baking soda. Dunk each pretzel in this bath for about 30 seconds. This step might seem unusual but it’s essential because the alkaline bath reacts with the dough surface to develop that chewy, glossy crust synonymous with pretzels. After soaking, lift and allow excess water to drip off.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
Beat the egg with water to create your egg wash, then brush each pretzel generously right before baking. This gives the pretzels their beautiful golden sheen and ensures any salt or toppings stick in place. Don’t skip this step—it transforms the look and texture from homemade to bakery-worthy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place pretzels on a lightly floured baking tray with space between them and pop into a preheated oven at 425°F. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating halfway to ensure even cooking. Your pretzels are done when their color deepens to a rich golden brown and the crust feels firm yet with a slight spring. This perfect balance makes them utterly irresistible.
Step 7: Make the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
While pretzels bake, whisk together yellow mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and monkfruit syrup in a medium bowl until smooth. The result is a creamy, tangy-sweet dip that complements the salty pretzel perfectly. Chill briefly to allow flavors to meld—this really elevates the experience and shows off why this recipe is so special.
How to Serve Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra burst of flavor and crunch, sprinkle coarse sea salt or pretzel salt over the pretzels right after the egg wash. You can also add toasted sesame seeds or poppy seeds for color and texture contrast. These small finishing touches make your pretzels feel gourmet and visually stunning.
Side Dishes
While the pretzels and honey mustard dip shine on their own, pairing them with crunchy carrot sticks, crisp celery, or a light cabbage slaw adds a refreshing counterpoint. For a heartier snack spread, consider offering a variety of dips alongside—like tangy beer cheese or a dairy-free spinach artichoke dip.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is part of the fun! Serve your pretzels stacked in a rustic basket lined with a checked cloth for a cozy vibe, or array them plated with dollops of honey mustard in small ramekins for dipping. You could even thread pretzels onto skewers for a playful party snack that invites guests to grab and go. It’s a versatile dish that adapts beautifully to any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Because these pretzels have that freshly baked quality, enjoy them sooner rather than later to savor the fluffy interior and chewy crust at their best.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked pretzels after shaping and the baking soda bath by placing them on a lined tray and freezing until firm. Then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month. Alternatively, freeze fully baked pretzels wrapped tightly to preserve freshness. This way, you have a quick gluten-free snack ready whenever cravings strike.
Reheating
To revive baked pretzels, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes until heated through and restored to that freshly baked warmth and slight crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy, robbing your pretzel of its iconic texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different gluten-free flour blend?
Absolutely. While this recipe calls for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum, other blends can work too. Just make sure the blend has a similar texture to wheat flour and includes a binder like xanthan gum or guar gum to keep the pretzels chewy and elastic.
What if I don’t have monkfruit syrup for the dip?
You can substitute monkfruit syrup with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. These natural sweeteners will create the same lovely balance of sweetness in the honey mustard dipping sauce.
Is it necessary to do the baking soda bath?
Yes, this step is essential to develop the characteristic chewy crust and glossy finish of pretzels. Skipping it will result in a softer, bread-like texture rather than a traditional pretzel bite.
Can I make these pretzels vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk wash (such as almond or soy milk) brushed on before baking. For the dip, swap mayonnaise with a vegan alternative to maintain the creamy consistency.
How long does the dough take to rise?
Expect about 1 hour for the dough to double in size when kept in a warm, draft-free area. Environmental conditions can affect rise times, so if your kitchen is cool, give it a bit more time and watch for visible air bubbles as your cue.
Final Thoughts
Making Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe at home is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat without compromise. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, get hands-on with your food, and savor every chewy, golden bite with that perfect tangy-sweet dip. Once you try this, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your gluten-free baking repertoire. So preheat that oven and get ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share these scrumptious pretzels with you!
Print
Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 pretzels
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzel recipe offers a soft, chewy, and perfectly golden treat paired with a creamy honey mustard dip. Made with a gluten-free flour blend and carefully kneaded for optimal rise, these pretzels are boiled briefly in a baking soda bath to develop their signature crust before baking to perfection. The accompanying honey mustard dip combines tangy mustard, smooth mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and monkfruit syrup for a flavorful complement that is both creamy and slightly sweet.
Ingredients
Pretzel Dough
- 2 ½ cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour (Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 blend with xanthan gum, spooned and leveled)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast (SAF Red Label)
- 1 cup warm water (between 105–115°F, checked with a probe thermometer)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute (Swerve Brown)
- 1 teaspoon table salt (iodized)
- 2 tablespoons baking soda (Bob’s Red Mill) – for boiling bath
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Honey Mustard Dip
- ⅓ cup yellow mustard (French’s Classic)
- 2 tablespoons monkfruit syrup (Lakanto Golden)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (Bragg)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s)
Instructions
- Knead the dough: Gently knead the gluten-free dough on a lightly floured surface for approximately 8 minutes until it feels elastic and slightly tacky. This step is essential to help the dough retain gas for proper rising.
- Let the dough rise: Place the dough ball into an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and set in a warm area. Allow it to rest for about 1 hour or until doubled in size with visible air bubbles under the surface.
- Shape the pretzels: Divide the risen dough into equal pieces and roll each into long ropes. Shape them into classic pretzels, ensuring consistent diameter for even baking.
- Boil pretzels: Prepare a simmering water bath with 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Dip each pretzel in the bath for about 30 seconds to achieve the signature chewy crust, then remove and let drain.
- Apply egg wash and salt: Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush this over each pretzel and sprinkle with salt before baking to promote even browning and secure toppings.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pretzels on a lightly dusted baking tray with space between them. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating halfway through, until deep golden brown and crusty but springy to the touch.
- Prepare honey mustard dip: Whisk together yellow mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and monkfruit syrup in a medium bowl until smooth. Chill briefly to meld flavors before serving alongside warm pretzels.
Notes
- Use a gluten-free measure-for-measure flour blend with xanthan gum for optimal dough texture.
- Check water temperature carefully when activating yeast; it should be warm but not hot (105–115°F).
- During shaping, maintain even thickness of dough ropes to ensure uniform baking.
- The baking soda bath is crucial for creating the pretzel’s characteristic crust and color.
- Rotate the baking tray halfway to ensure even browning on all pretzels.
- You can substitute monkfruit syrup with honey or maple syrup if not following a low-sugar diet.
- For a crispier crust, bake pretzels on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.
