Here’s a recipe for Pretzilla Soft Pretzel Sausage Buns—soft, chewy pretzel-style buns that are perfect for sausages or bratwursts. They’re lightly salty on the outside and soft inside, just like a classic pretzel.
Pretzilla-Style Soft Pretzel Sausage Buns
Ingredients (makes 6–8 buns)
Dough
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Baking Soda Bath
- 4 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
Topping
- Coarse salt
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Activate yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. - Make dough
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and butter. Knead 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise 1 hour or until doubled in size. - Shape buns
Punch down dough and divide into 6–8 equal pieces. Shape into small oval buns (about the size of a sausage). Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let rise 20–30 minutes. - Prepare baking soda bath
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large pot, bring 4 cups water and ½ cup baking soda to a boil. - Boil buns
Using a slotted spoon, gently lower buns into boiling water for 30 seconds. Flip halfway through. Remove and place back on baking sheet. - Add egg wash & salt
Brush buns with beaten egg and sprinkle coarse salt on top. - Bake
Bake 15–18 minutes, until golden brown. Cool slightly before slicing. - Assemble sausage buns
Slice buns horizontally and fill with your favorite cooked sausage, bratwurst, or hot dog. Top with mustard, onions, or sauerkraut if desired.
Tips
- For extra chewiness, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Let the buns cool completely before slicing to avoid tearing.
- You can add shredded cheese inside the buns for a cheesy pretzel twist.
If you want, I can also give a one-bowl slow-rise Pretzilla-style dough recipe that’s easier to make at home and perfect for soft pretzel sausage buns without all the fuss.
Do you want me to do that?