Name: Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Pumpkin Praline:; ½ cup packed light brown sugar; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 3 tbsp milk; 1 tbsp pumpkin puree; 1 cup confectioners’ sugar; For the Basic Pretzel Dough:; 1 packet Red Star Platinum yeast; 1½ cups warm water; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp packed light brown sugar; 4¼ cups all-purpose flour; 9 cups water; ½ cup Baking Soda; For The Topping:; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground cloves; ½ tsp ground nutmeg

Indulge in the taste of fall with these Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels. This recipe takes the classic pretzel to new heights with a festive twist. The pumpkin praline adds a sweet, creamy layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy pretzel, making this an ideal treat for the holiday season.

Photos of Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels Recipe

This recipe calls for some ingredients that you may not regularly have at home. Pumpkin puree, typically available in cans, is a key ingredient for the praline topping. It gives the praline a distinct fall flavor. Another ingredient to look out for is Red Star Platinum Yeast, which is a high-quality yeast that ensures a soft and fluffy pretzel dough. Lastly, the spices ground cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg are necessary for the topping, lending the pretzels a warm, aromatic sweetness.

Pumpkin Praline and Soft Pretzel Ingredients

Light brown sugar: Gives a rich molasses flavor to the praline and the dough.**

Unsalted butter: Adds a creamy, rich dimension to the praline and helps in the browning of the pretzels.

Milk: Used in the praline to create a smoother consistency.

Pumpkin puree: Gives the praline a distinct pumpkin flavor.

Confectioners’ sugar: Adds sweetness to the praline and aids in thickening it.

Red Star Platinum Yeast: A high-quality yeast that ensures a soft and fluffy pretzel dough.

All-purpose flour: The base for the pretzel dough.

Baking soda: Used in the boiling process to create the classic pretzel crust.

Granulated sugar: Combines with the spices for the topping.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, aromatic sweetness to the pretzel topping.

Ground cloves: Enhances the flavor of the topping with its strong, pungent essence.

Ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and cloves in the topping with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.

One reader, Hyacinth Crawford says:

These pumpkin praline soft pretzels are a game-changer! The combination of pumpkin and praline is simply divine. The soft, fluffy texture of the pretzels paired with the sweet and nutty topping is a match made in heaven. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful fall treat!

Hyacinth Crawford

Techniques Required for Making Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

How to prepare the praline topping: In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and milk over medium heat. Whisk continuously until smooth and bring to a boil. Allow it to boil for 1 minute without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in the pumpkin and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Set aside to thicken for at least 20 minutes.

How to make the pretzel dough: Dissolve the yeast in warm water, then whisk in the salt and brown sugar until combined. Slowly add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing with a large spoon until the dough is thick and no longer sticky. Avoid adding too much flour to keep the pretzels soft. After 3 to 4 cups of flour, check the dough's readiness by poking it with your finger. If it bounces back, it is ready to knead. If not, add a bit more flour. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead for 3 minutes, and shape it into a ball. Cut into 7 to 8 sections, then roll each section into a 20-inch rope with an even diameter. Form the pretzel shape by twisting the ends and bringing them in towards yourself.

How to boil the pretzels: Whisk 9 cups of water and the baking soda together in a large pot, then bring it to a boil. Place a pretzel onto a large slotted spatula and dip it into the boiling water for 20 to 30 seconds. Lift the pretzel out of the water and allow the excess water to drip off. Place the pretzel onto a prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining pretzels.

How to apply the topping: Melt the butter in a small bowl and mix the granulated sugar and spices together in another small bowl. Brush each pretzel with the melted butter and generously sprinkle with the sugar and pumpkin spice mixture. After baking for 10 minutes, remove the pretzels from the oven and sprinkle with more sugar and pumpkin spice if desired. Drizzle the prepared praline topping on each pretzel before serving.

How To Make Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

This is not your ordinary pretzel recipe. It comes with a healthy twist made with pumpkin. You can have these pumpkin praline pretzels as snacks.

Preparation: 45 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Praline:

½cuppacked light brown sugar,(100 grams)
¼cupunsalted butter,(60 grams)
3tbspmilk,(45 ml) any kind, any fat content
1tbsppumpkin puree
1cupconfectioners’ sugar,(120 grams)

For the Basic Pretzel Dough:

1packetRed Star Platinum yeast,(2¼ teaspoon of instant dry yeast)
1½cupswarm water,(360 ml) approximately 110 degrees F (43°C) to 115 degrees F (46°C)
1tspsalt
1tbsppacked light brown sugar,(15 grams)
4¼cupsall-purpose flour,(500 to 530 grams) spoon & leveled
9cupswater,(2,160 ml)
½cupBaking Soda

For the Topping:

2tbspunsalted butter,(30 grams) melted
⅓cupgranulated sugar,(42 grams)
1tspground cinnamon
½tspground cloves
½tspground nutmeg

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (218°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.

Praline topping:

Add the brown sugar, butter, and milk to a small saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk the mixture until smooth and bring to a boil. Allow boiling for 1 minute without stirring.
Remove from heat and stir in the pumpkin and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Set aside and allow to thicken for at least 20 minutes.

Pretzels

Whisk the yeast in 1½ cups of warm water. Allow to almost fully dissolve for about 1 minute. Whisk in the salt and brown sugar until combined. Slowly add the flour 1 cup at a time.
Mix with a large spoon until the dough is thick and no longer sticky. Do not add too much flour or the pretzels will not be soft.
After 3 to 4 cups of flour, poke the dough with your finger. If it bounces back, it is ready to knead. If not, add a bit more flour.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for 3 minutes and shape it into a ball. With a sharp knife, cut into 7 to 8 sections.
Roll each section into a 20-inch rope with an even diameter. Take the ends of the rope and form a giant U shape. Take the ends, twist them, and bring them in towards yourself creating a pretzel shape.
Whisk 9 cups of water and the baking soda together in a large pot. Bring to a boil. Place a pretzel onto a large slotted spatula and dip into the boiling water for 20 to 30 seconds.
Lift the pretzel out of the water and allow as much of the excess water to drip off. Place pretzel onto a prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the rest of the pretzels.
Bake for 10 minutes.

Topping:

Melt the butter in a small bowl. Mix the granulated sugar and spices together in another small bowl.
Remove the pretzels from the oven and brush each top with the melted butter and generously sprinkle with the sugar/pumpkin spice mixture.
Place back into the oven and bake for another 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with more sugar/pumpkin spice if desired.
Drizzle the praline on top of each pretzel. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pretzels may be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 476.31kcal
Fat: 9.61g
Saturated Fat: 5.73g
Trans Fat: 0.35g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.61g
Carbohydrates: 90.36g
Fiber: 2.34g
Sugar: 38.54g
Protein: 7.56g
Cholesterol: 23.45mg
Sodium: 3798.73mg
Calcium: 46.38mg
Potassium: 117.83mg
Iron: 3.30mg
Vitamin A: 90.35µg
Vitamin C: 0.10mg

Key Technique for Perfect Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

When making the pretzel dough, it's essential to add the flour gradually. This allows you to control the consistency of the dough and prevent it from becoming too dry or too sticky. If the dough is too dry, it will be hard to shape and the pretzels will turn out tough. On the other hand, if it's too sticky, it will be difficult to handle and may not hold its shape well. So, take your time and add the flour slowly, checking the texture of the dough after each addition. This will help you achieve the perfect dough consistency for soft, chewy pretzels.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

Prepare the praline: Make the praline ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time when you're ready to assemble the pretzels.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to knead the pretzel dough. This will save time and effort compared to kneading by hand.

Double the recipe: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing half of the pretzels for later. This way, you'll have a quick and delicious treat on hand whenever you need it.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe. This will streamline the cooking process and save time searching for items.

Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels Recipe

pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to pumpkin, making it a suitable substitute for pumpkin puree in this recipe.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: Powdered erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used as a substitute for confectioners' sugar, especially for those looking for a sugar-free option.
red star platinum yeast - Substitute with active dry yeast: Active dry yeast can be used as a substitute for red star platinum yeast in this recipe, with a slight adjustment in the activation process.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding a nutty flavor and extra nutrients to the pretzel dough.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to unsalted butter, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the recipe.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener in place of granulated sugar, adding a rich, caramel-like flavor to the topping.

Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

Elevate the pretzel presentation: Arrange the pumpkin praline soft pretzels on a sleek, modern serving platter to showcase their artisanal appeal.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the pretzels with delicate, colorful edible flowers, such as pansies or nasturtiums, to enhance the visual appeal.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Integrate seasonal elements such as miniature decorative pumpkins or autumn leaves into the plating to evoke a sense of seasonal charm and sophistication.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the pumpkin praline soft pretzels on sophisticated ceramic platters or marble serving boards to exude a sense of refinement and luxury.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the pretzels in a visually appealing pattern, such as a circular or cascading formation, to captivate the eye and create an inviting presentation.
Accentuate with gold leaf: For a touch of opulence, delicately place edible gold leaf atop the pumpkin praline soft pretzels to add a luxurious and extravagant element to the presentation.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Skillfully drizzle the pumpkin praline topping in an artistic manner, using precision and finesse to create an aesthetically pleasing design on each pretzel.
Highlight with ambient lighting: Showcase the pretzels under soft, warm lighting to accentuate their golden hues and create an inviting ambiance that complements the indulgent nature of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Soft Pretzels

Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for making the pumpkin praline topping.
Whisk: A whisk is used to mix the ingredients for the pumpkin praline topping and to stir the boiling mixture until smooth.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used to melt the butter for the topping and to mix the granulated sugar and spices for sprinkling on the pretzels.
Large baking sheets: Large baking sheets are used to bake the pretzels in the oven.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: These are used to line the baking sheets to prevent the pretzels from sticking.
Large pot: A large pot is used to boil the water and baking soda for dipping the pretzels before baking.
Slotted spatula: A slotted spatula is used to lift the pretzels out of the boiling water and onto the baking sheets.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife is used to cut the pretzel dough into sections before shaping.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the ingredients for the pretzel dough.
Floured surface: A floured surface is used for kneading and shaping the pretzel dough.
Basting brush: A basting brush is used to brush the melted butter onto the baked pretzels.
Oven: An oven is used for baking the pretzels and achieving the desired golden brown color and texture.

Storing and Freezing Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

Allow the pretzels to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
To freeze the pretzels, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen pretzels at room temperature for about an hour or in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat, place the pretzels on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
If the praline topping becomes too hard after storing, you can soften it by placing the pretzels in the microwave for a few seconds or by drizzling a little bit of warm milk over the top.

How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

To reheat leftover pumpkin praline soft pretzels, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the praline topping is melted and gooey. This method will help restore the pretzels' original texture and flavor, making them taste almost as good as when they were freshly baked.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the pretzel on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. Check the pretzel and heat it for an additional 5-10 seconds if needed. Be careful not to overheat the pretzel, as it may become tough or rubbery. The microwave method is quick and convenient, but the pretzel may not be as crispy as when reheated in the oven.
For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, try reheating the pretzels in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pretzels in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat the pretzels for 3-4 minutes, or until they are heated through and the outside is crispy. This method is a great compromise between the oven and microwave, as it provides a crispy texture without the need to wait for the oven to preheat.
If you have a toaster oven, you can also use it to reheat your leftover pumpkin praline soft pretzels. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pretzels on the wire rack. Heat the pretzels for 4-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and the praline topping is melted. This method is similar to using a regular oven but is more energy-efficient and faster, making it a great choice for reheating smaller quantities of pretzels.

Interesting Facts About Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

The pumpkin praline soft pretzels recipe is a delightful autumn treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with the classic soft pretzel. It's a unique twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for enjoying during the fall season.

Is Making Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels at Home Cost-Effective?

This pumpkin praline soft pretzels recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional pretzels. The use of pumpkin puree and warm spices adds a seasonal touch, making it a unique treat for the family. The cost-effectiveness of this recipe is moderate due to the use of ingredients like butter and confectioners’ sugar. However, the delightful flavors and the joy it brings to the table make it a worthwhile investment. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its creativity and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it a reasonable indulgence.

Are Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pumpkin praline soft pretzel recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content from the brown sugar, confectioners' sugar, and granulated sugar
Significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
Use of refined all-purpose flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients
Deep frying the pretzels in baking soda water, potentially increasing the fat content

However, there are several ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:

Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of sugar in the praline topping and the cinnamon-sugar coating, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Use pumpkin puree in the dough to add moisture and reduce the amount of butter needed
Brush the pretzels with egg wash and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking, instead of dipping them in butter after baking
Experiment with baking the pretzels instead of boiling them in baking soda water to reduce the fat content

By incorporating more whole grains, reducing the sugar and fat content, and focusing on baking rather than frying, you can create a healthier version of these pumpkin praline soft pretzels that still satisfies your cravings for a sweet and indulgent treat.

Editor's Opinion on This Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzel Recipe

The combination of pumpkin praline and soft pretzels is a delightful twist on a classic treat. The use of pumpkin puree adds a warm, autumnal flavor to the pretzels, while the praline topping provides a sweet and nutty crunch. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for home bakers, and the final result is sure to impress with its unique blend of flavors and textures. Overall, this recipe offers a creative and delicious take on traditional soft pretzels, perfect for a cozy fall gathering or a special treat.

Enhance Your Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful side dish by adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes. The roasted garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor to the classic mashed potatoes.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Elevate your meal with colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable skewers. The combination of different vegetables adds a variety of textures and flavors to your meal.

Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche: Indulge in a savory and rich quiche filled with caramelized onions and crispy bacon. The combination of flavors creates a delicious and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin praline soft pretzels.

Similar Recipes to Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich and flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices and spices, this grilled chicken is bursting with flavor. It's a refreshing and light dish that's perfect for a summer barbecue.

Berry Cobbler: This sweet and juicy berry cobbler is topped with a buttery, golden crust that's irresistible. It's a classic dessert that's perfect for showcasing the best of summer berries.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in this creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips or warm bread. A crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Whip up a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender strips of beef in a creamy mushroom sauce. Pair it with buttery egg noodles for a classic and delicious meal.

Why trust this Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the warmth of pumpkin puree with the rich sweetness of praline. The use of red star platinum yeast ensures a perfect rise, while the aromatic blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in the topping adds a tantalizing aroma. The meticulous instructions guarantee soft, pillowy pretzels every time. With the careful attention to detail and the harmonious blend of seasonal ingredients, this recipe is a testament to the culinary expertise and dedication of the chef.

Want to learn more about making Pumpkin Praline Soft Pretzels or share your own tips and twists? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I make the pretzel dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pretzel dough ahead of time. After kneading the dough, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When ready to use, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking the pretzels.

Can I freeze the pretzels?

Absolutely! Once the pretzels are baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Can I substitute the pumpkin puree with something else?

If you prefer, you can substitute the pumpkin puree with mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash puree. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still add a delicious autumnal twist to the pretzels.

Can I skip the praline topping?

Of course! If you prefer a simpler flavor, you can skip the praline topping and simply enjoy the pretzels with a sprinkle of coarse salt or cinnamon sugar. The pretzels will still be delicious and flavorful without the praline topping.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast in this recipe. Simply use the same amount of instant yeast, and there is no need to dissolve it in water before using. Just mix it in with the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe as directed.