Discover the Homemade Delight: Auntie Anne’s Sweet Almond Pretzel Recipe

Introduction

Auntie Anne’s famous sweet almond pretzels are a delightful treat that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Making these delectable pretzels at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly rewarding. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked sweet almond pretzels in your own kitchen. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create these irresistible treats and impress your friends and family with your baking prowess.

Ingredients

To create Auntie Anne’s sweet almond pretzels at home, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect sweet almond pretzels:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it stand for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with flour and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small pieces, and roll and shape each piece into a pretzel.
4. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and almonds. Dip each pretzel into melted butter, and then coat it with the almond mixture.
5. Place the pretzels onto a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. In another bowl, whisk together almond extract, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the warm pretzels.
7. Enjoy your homemade sweet almond pretzels!

FAQ

Can I substitute the almond extract with another flavor?

While almond extract provides the distinctive flavor in these pretzels, you can experiment with other extracts such as vanilla or orange to create different variations.

Can I use a different type of nut for the topping?

Yes, feel free to explore other nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts to add a unique twist to your sweet pretzels.

How long do the sweet almond pretzels stay fresh?

Store the pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their freshness and crispiness.

Can these pretzels be made gluten-free?

While this specific recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary restrictions.

Can I freeze the pretzels for later consumption?

Yes, the pretzels can be frozen for up to one month. Allow them to thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before serving.