Bake satisfying, nutritious pretzels packed with protein and fiber. This recipe uses whole grains and protein powder to create a healthier twist on a classic snack.
Author:julianmaxwell
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:8 pretzels 1x
Category:Snack
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup vital wheat gluten
1/4 cup unflavored whey protein powder
2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1/2 cup warm water (about 105-115°F)
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 egg white, lightly beaten (for wash)
Coarse sea salt, for topping
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, vital wheat gluten, protein powder, flaxseed meal, baking soda, salt, and yeast.
In a separate small bowl, mix the warm water, maple syrup, and olive oil.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough for 5 to 7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of extra whole wheat flour.
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20 inches long.
Shape each rope into a traditional pretzel shape.
Prepare a shallow baking dish with 1/2 cup of baking soda dissolved in 4 cups of boiling water. This creates the traditional pretzel bath.
Carefully dip each pretzel into the baking soda bath for 30 seconds, turning once. Remove with a slotted spatula and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops of the pretzels with the beaten egg white and sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until deep golden brown.
Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
For a low carb high fiber pretzels variation, substitute half the whole wheat flour with almond flour, adjusting water slightly.
You can air fry these pretzels for a quicker cook time; place them in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, checking frequently.
Use this recipe as a base for fitness friendly snacks by adding everything bagel seasoning after the egg wash.