If you’ve ever craved that perfect snack that’s delightfully chewy, golden brown, and bursting with flavor, then you’re going to love making this Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe. It’s a game changer for anyone who’s gluten intolerant but refuses to miss out on that classic pretzel experience. With a crisp crust and soft, tender inside, paired with a luscious honey mustard dip that’s tangy, sweet, and creamy all at once, this recipe is bound to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each carefully chosen ingredient plays a specific role in achieving that perfect texture, flavor balance, and irresistible aroma.

2 ½ cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour: Using Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 blend with xanthan gum guarantees that your pretzels will have structure and chew without the gluten.
1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast: This helps the dough rise and develop those lovely air pockets that make each bite tender.
1 cup warm water (105–115°F): The perfect temperature activates the yeast without killing it, setting the stage for a good rise.
2 tablespoons brown sugar substitute (Swerve Brown): Adds subtle sweetness and feeds the yeast for enhanced fermentation.
1 teaspoon table salt (iodized): Brings out flavors and balances the sweetness in the dough.
2 tablespoons baking soda (Bob’s Red Mill): Used in the water bath to give pretzels their signature chewy crust and distinct flavor.
1 large egg (for egg wash): Provides a glossy, golden finish and helps toppings adhere beautifully.
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash): Lightens the egg wash, making it easier to brush on.
⅓ cup yellow mustard (French’s Classic): Forms the tangy backbone of the dipping sauce.
2 tablespoons monkfruit syrup (Lakanto Golden): Adds a natural sweetness without overpowering the mustard’s tang.
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (Bragg): Introduces a subtle acidity to balance richness in the honey mustard dip.
¼ cup mayonnaise (Hellmann’s): Brings creaminess and body to the dipping sauce for the perfect dip texture.

How to Make Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Knead the Dough

Start by gently kneading the gluten-free flour mixture on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes. This step is so important because the gentle kneading develops the dough’s elasticity and ensures it’s tacky but holdable, which helps it trap air during rising. Trust me, this effort pays off with pretzels that are soft and chewy, not crumbly.

Step 2: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough ball in an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Then find a warm spot and let it rest for roughly an hour or until it doubles in size. Look for those bubbly signs under the surface—this means your yeast is alive and kicking, working magic for your pretzels’ texture!

Step 3: Shape Your Pretzels

Divide the risen dough into equal pieces and roll each into long ropes, keeping an even thickness throughout. Then twist them into that iconic pretzel shape. This classic form isn’t just for looks; it ensures even cooking and that satisfying chew in every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Simmer a pot of water with baking soda and dip each shaped pretzel for about 30 seconds. This baking soda bath is the secret to that shiny, chewy crust and adds a hint of that authentic pretzel flavor that makes these gluten-free versions truly special.

Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash

Whisk the egg with water and brush this mixture lightly over each pretzel. Adding a sprinkle of salt now boosts flavor and keeps your pretzels looking beautifully golden as they bake. This finishing touch ensures they don’t just taste amazing, but look stunning too.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F and place the pretzels on a lightly dusted baking sheet, giving each space to expand. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, turning the tray halfway to guarantee an even golden-brown color all around. They’re done when the crust feels firm but slightly springy to the touch—pure pretzel bliss.

Step 7: Whisk Up the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce

In a bowl, combine yellow mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and monkfruit syrup. Whisk until silky smooth, then pop it in the fridge for a quick chill. This chilling step lets all those bright, creamy flavors mingle, giving you a dip that complements every warm, soft bite of your freshly baked pretzels.

How to Serve Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling coarse sea salt atop your pretzels just before baking adds a salty crunch that perfectly contrasts the soft interior. You can also get playful with toppings—try everything bagel seasoning, garlic flakes, or even grated cheese for a twist that’ll wow your friends.

Side Dishes

These pretzels pair wonderfully with crisp vegetable sticks, a fresh green salad, or even a small bowl of soup. Whether it’s a cozy movie night or a casual lunch, balancing the richness of pretzels with lighter sides creates an inviting and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these pretzels on a rustic wooden board with small ramekins of the honey mustard sauce alongside other dips like spicy ketchup or a creamy herb dip. Add fresh herbs or edible flowers as a flourish, turning your snack into a vibrant party centerpiece that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This way, they stay fresh enough to reheat and enjoy without losing their signature chewiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the pretzels after baking by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to a month, making it super convenient to have this crowd-pleaser ready when you need it.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover pretzels back to life, pop them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5 to 8 minutes. This warms them through while reviving that perfect chewy crust and soft interior, just like fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different gluten-free flour blend?

Absolutely! Although this recipe uses Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 blend with xanthan gum for ideal texture, other measure-for-measure gluten-free blends should work well too. Just ensure they contain xanthan gum or another binding agent to keep the dough elastic.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

You can experiment by swapping the egg wash with a plant-based alternative like aquafaba or a mixture of almond milk and maple syrup. For the dipping sauce, replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will remain delicious.

What’s the purpose of the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is key to achieving that classic pretzel crust. It raises the dough’s pH, which browns the surface during baking and creates that chewy exterior everyone loves in a pretzel.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the ingredients works perfectly, just make sure you have enough space to let the dough rise properly and in multiple batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding your oven.

How long does the honey mustard dipping sauce keep?

Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the honey mustard dip stays fresh for about one week. Give it a good stir before serving as the flavors may settle or separate slightly.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend this Homemade Gluten-Free Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Recipe enough! It delivers all the nostalgic comfort of traditional pretzels with none of the gluten worries, plus a dip so addictive you’ll want to double the batch. Give it a try and watch these become your go-to snack for family nights, parties, or a cozy treat any day of the week.