Creating mini pretzels with kids is a fun and easy baking activity that’s perfect for rainy days or weekend treats. This recipe is straightforward, so even small hands can help with each step. Plus, it’s a delicious way to spend time together!

Why Pretzel-Making is Perfect for Kids

Pretzels are hands-on and full of easy, enjoyable steps, from kneading to shaping. Baking together can teach kids essential kitchen skills while also being fun and relaxing. They learn about ingredients, measurements, and even a little science.

Ingredients and Tools

To make a single, mini pretzel with kids, you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 43 grams all-purpose flour
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon oil

Instructions for Kid-Friendly Pretzel-Making

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about a minute until foamy.
2. Make the Dough: In another bowl, combine flour, salt, melted butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix well until the dough begins to form. Encourage kids to mix slowly so flour doesn’t puff everywhere.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead for about 3–4 minutes until it’s smooth. Let kids get involved here, as kneading is a tactile, engaging part of the process. The dough will feel stretchy but manageable.
4. Rest the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, brush with a tiny bit of oil, and cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes—this is a great time to let kids clean up or prepare for the next step.
5. Shape the Pretzel: After resting, roll the dough into a 20-inch rope. If you’re working with younger children, show them how to make a “U” shape, cross the ends, and twist to form the traditional pretzel shape.

Make a Baking Soda Bath

This step is where the magic happens! A quick baking soda bath is key to giving pretzels their iconic golden color.

1. Boil Water: Boil 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Be sure to supervise as this step involves hot water.
2. Dip the Pretzel: Carefully dip the shaped pretzel in the baking soda bath for a few seconds, then place it on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
3. Add Salt: Sprinkle a little coarse salt on the pretzel before baking. Kids love this step since they can be generous or sprinkle sparingly, giving each pretzel a personal touch.

Baking Time

Bake at 204°C (400°F) for around 15 minutes. When they’re golden and shiny, they’re done!

Tips for a Fun Pretzel-Making Experience

1. Go Slow: Enjoy each step, especially the dough kneading and pretzel shaping, as these are most fun for kids.
2. Customize: Try adding cheese, cinnamon, or chocolate for extra flavors.
3. Cool and Enjoy: Once the pretzels have cooled a bit, enjoy your creations together!

Making mini pretzels with kids is a simple, delicious activity that can turn any day into a memorable, hands-on experience.

For more small batch kid’s recipe, check out my post on sugar cookie pops here.