Neujahrspretzel New Year's Pretzels

Celebrate the start of the year with the traditional Neujahrspretzel, a delightful German New Year's Pretzel that symbolizes good luck and prosperity. This soft, buttery bread features a subtly sweet flavor infused with vanilla and a golden, glossy finish thanks to a rich egg wash. Perfectly braided into an eye-catching pretzel shape, it rises to airy perfection after a double proofing process, resulting in a tender, pillowy texture. Adorn it with pearl sugar or festive sprinkles for added charm, and serve warm to family and friends as a centerpiece for your New Year’s festivities. Whether paired with coffee for breakfast or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, this symbolic treat brings both tradition and taste to your holiday table.

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 500 g All-purpose flour
• 50 g Granulated sugar
• 1 tsp Salt
• 7 g Active dry yeast
• 250 ml Warm milk
• 50 g Unsalted butter, melted
• 2 pieces Large eggs
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 piece Egg yolk (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp Water (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp Pearl sugar or sprinkles (optional for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well to combine.

Step 3

Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough begins to form.

Step 4

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Place the dough in a clean, greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Once risen, transfer the dough back to the floured surface and gently punch it down to release air bubbles.

Step 7

Divide the dough into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope (about 24 inches in length).

Step 8

Braid the three ropes together, and then shape the braided dough into a large pretzel shape. Tuck the ends neatly underneath.

Step 9

Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let it rise again for 30-40 minutes until puffed.

Step 10

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 11

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash evenly over the pretzel.

Step 12

If desired, sprinkle pearl sugar or decorative sprinkles over the top.

Step 13

Bake the pretzel in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 14

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Neujahrspretzel fresh on New Year’s Day with family and friends.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1032.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2827.3

Total Fat 65.5g	0%
Saturated Fat 34.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 686.3mg	0%
Sodium 2637.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 475.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.0g	0%
Total Sugars 89.6g
Protein 77.9g	0%

Vitamin D 201.6IU	0%
Calcium 483.6mg	0%
Iron 25.9mg	0%
Potassium 1240.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.0%

Protein: 11.1%

Carbs: 67.8%