Perfect Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

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Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls have officially captured my heart this fall season! I’ve always loved the cozy, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice, and combining them with the satisfying chew of a soft pretzel is pure genius. The aroma that fills my kitchen as these bake – a warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and that hint of sweet dough – is simply intoxicating. This particular pumpkin spice pretzel recipe is my go-to because it’s surprisingly simple, making it an easy pumpkin spice pretzel recipe that anyone can master. Get ready to fall in love with this taste of autumn; let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

The perfect blend of sweet and savory with warm pumpkin spice flavors
Super quick prep time, ready in under an hour
A healthier snack option with whole ingredients
Incredibly budget-friendly, especially when made from scratch
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family gatherings
Making these homemade pumpkin spice pretzels is a fun activity for all ages
Enjoy the comforting taste of homemade pumpkin spice pretzels anytime
A delightful fall treat that’s both satisfying and delicious

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

Gathering the right pumpkin spice pretzel ingredients is the first step to baking these delightful fall treats. You’ll need 4 cups all-purpose flour for the base, and 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp) to get that perfect rise. For that signature fall flavor, we’re using 1 cup pumpkin puree, which adds moisture and color, and ½ cup brown sugar for a touch of caramel sweetness. Don’t forget 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice to bring in all those warm, cozy notes. A teaspoon of 1 tsp salt balances the flavors. For the boiling bath, have 6 cups water and ½ cup baking soda ready. Finally, you’ll need melted butter (for brushing) and coarse sea salt (for topping) to finish!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

Let’s dive into making these delicious pumpkin spice pretzel falls! It’s a straightforward process that brings the taste of autumn right into your kitchen.

Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper – this makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp), ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice. Gradually add 1 cup warm water and 1 cup pumpkin puree. Mix everything together until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. You want it to become smooth and elastic. This kneading process is crucial for developing the gluten, which gives pretzels their signature chewy texture.
Step 4: Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks puffy and has a lovely yeasty aroma.
Step 5: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope about 10-12 inches long. Shape each rope into your desired pretzel form.
Step 6: Now for the magic step in how to make pumpkin spice pretzels so they have that perfect crust! Bring 6 cups of water and ½ cup of baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot. Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through. This is what gives them that beautiful golden-brown color and signature pretzel flavor.
Step 7: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the boiled pretzels to the prepared baking sheets. Brush the tops generously with melted butter, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Sprinkle liberally with coarse sea salt for that classic salty crunch that perfectly complements the sweet pumpkin spice.
Step 8: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pretzels are a deep golden brown and smell wonderfully fragrant. The aroma of baking pretzels and pumpkin spice is truly irresistible!
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. Serving these homemade pumpkin spice pretzels warm is the best way to enjoy them!

Pro Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

Want to elevate your fall baking? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up for making truly amazing pumpkin spice pretzels.

Make sure your pumpkin puree isn’t too watery; drain any excess liquid before adding it to the dough.
For an extra burst of flavor, you can knead a little more pumpkin pie spice directly into the dough.
Don’t skip the baking soda bath! It’s essential for that classic pretzel crust and color.
Letting the dough rise properly is key to achieving that wonderfully chewy interior.

What’s the secret to perfect Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls?

The secret to the best pumpkin spice pretzels lies in the boiling step. A quick dip in the baking soda bath before baking creates that signature chewy texture and beautiful golden-brown crust that everyone loves.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare the dough ahead! After kneading, let it rise, then punch it down, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Shape and boil them just before baking for the freshest results.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls?

Avoid over-mixing the dough, as this can lead to tough pretzels. Also, ensure your baking soda bath is at a rolling boil, not just simmering, for the best crust development. For more baking tips, check out these baking tips.

Best Ways to Serve Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

These delightful pumpkin spice pretzel falls are so versatile! For a classic fall treat, serve them warm right out of the oven, sprinkled with that flaky sea salt. They pair wonderfully with a creamy caramel sauce or a tangy cream cheese frosting for dipping, making for some truly irresistible pumpkin spice pretzel dips. You could also serve them alongside a warm mug of apple cider or a rich hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy experience. They even make a fantastic sweet and salty snack for any autumn gathering or just a quiet afternoon. Learn more about fall baking.

Nutrition Facts for Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

When you’re enjoying these delightful fall pumpkin spice pretzels, it’s helpful to know what you’re eating. Each pretzel offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect treat.

Calories: 230
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 250mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional content, you can consult resources on food science.

How to Store and Reheat Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

Once your delicious fall pumpkin spice pretzels have cooled completely, it’s time to think about storing them. For the best flavor and texture, place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep that homemade taste for longer, you can freeze them! Wrap individual pretzels tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through. This brings back that perfect soft, chewy texture. Discover more about food preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls

What makes these Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls taste so good?

The magic is in the combination of warm pumpkin pie spice and the slightly sweet, chewy pretzel dough. When baked, the spices really bloom, and the salt on top provides that perfect sweet-and-salty contrast that makes them incredibly addictive pumpkin spice pretzel snacks.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls vegan?

You absolutely can! To make these pumpkin spice pretzel snacks vegan, simply substitute the melted butter with a vegan butter alternative or a neutral oil like coconut oil for brushing before topping with salt. The rest of the ingredients are typically vegan-friendly. Learn about vegan baking.

Are these Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls suitable for kids?

Yes, they are! The flavors are generally appealing to children, and making them together can be a really fun family activity. Just be mindful of the hot oven and boiling water during the preparation steps.

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use for Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls?

I always recommend using 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The puree adds moisture and that authentic pumpkin flavor, while the pie filling often contains added sugars and spices that could alter the recipe’s balance.

Variations of Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Falls You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic pumpkin spice pretzel recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative! There are so many fun ways to switch things up.

Chocolate Drizzle: After the pretzels have cooled, dip them halfway into melted chocolate pumpkin spice pretzels. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate chips! Let them set on wax paper.
Caramel Swirl: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted caramel pumpkin spice pretzels over the finished pretzels. Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel for an extra flavor pop.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dough. This creates a wonderfully complex spicy pumpkin pretzel recipe.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly, so watch the dough consistency.