Happy National Pretzel Day (yes, this is a real holiday, and yes we are celebrating!).

We love these soft pretzel sticks! They're fluffy, salty and the addition of our Sola Stella Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds a delicate and buttery flavor that is hard to beat.

Plus - this fig balsamic mustard dip is the perfect accompaniment! It adds a tart sweetness that really balances the salt of the pretzels.

While they might seem intimidating to make at home, they're actually quite simple with the right recipe. Serve these at your next party (next Oktoberfest?), or just for a snack at home, and you'll want to make them 24/7!

Why Use Olive Oil in Soft Pretzel Sticks?

Traditional soft pretzel sticks are made with butter or vegetable oil. However, using olive oil instead of these options can make them a healthier snack. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy benefits due to its high content of monounsaturated fats. Additionally, olive oil adds a unique and delicious flavor to the pretzel sticks.

Pretzel Sticks with a Fig Balsamic Vinegar and Mustard Dip

Ingredients:

Soft Pretzel Sticks:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup Sola Stella Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten
• Coarse salt

Fig Balsamic Mustard Dip:

• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Sola Stella Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/4 cup Fig Balsamic Vinegar or Hot Honey Balsamic Vinegar
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the warm water and olive oil.
3. Gradually add the water and oil mixture to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
6. While it's rising, make your fig balsamic mustard dip.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, fig balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Preheat your oven to 450°F.
10. In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Add the baking soda.
11. Divide the dough into 12 equal parts. Roll each part into a long, thin rope (about 12 inches long and 1/2 inch thick).
12. To make thin pretzel sticks, cut each rope into 2 equal parts to make 24 pretzel sticks. If you want thicker, roll out pieces to make 12 (as pictured).
13. Carefully drop the pretzel sticks into the boiling water for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a greased baking sheet.
14. Brush each pretzel stick with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
15. Bake the pretzel sticks for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
16. Let cool before serving.

Time to Enjoy!

Making homemade soft pretzel sticks with olive oil is easier than you might think. Plus, using olive oil instead of butter or vegetable oil makes them a healthier option.

Now that you know how, try baking even more breads with Texas Olive Oil! From a fresh olive loaf to a traditional Italian cornbread, we've got so many recipes for you to try. PLUS baking with EVOO is not only healthier, but insanely delicious.

Looking for more ways to use your Fig Balsamic Vinegar? Try it these on for size:

• Charred Brussels Sprouts with Pan Seared Salmon
• Fig Balsamic Butter Grits
• Salad with Warm Maple Fig Vinaigrette

Give this recipe a try and enjoy your delicious and nutritious homemade soft pretzel sticks! And click below to make the baking process even easier.

Download Recipe