The best way to heat up soft pretzels is to bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes for a crispy exterior and warm, soft interior.
There’s nothing worse than biting into a cold, chewy pretzel when you’re craving that warm, buttery, bakery-fresh taste. Whether your pretzels are leftover from yesterday or frozen for weeks, improper reheating can leave them dry, tough, or unevenly heated.
The right soft pretzel reheating method can restore that golden-brown crust and fluffy interior. In this guide, we’ll cover oven, microwave, and air fryer techniques, plus pro tips to avoid sogginess or rubbery textures. For those who love homemade pretzels, check out our guide on perfecting pretzel dough.
Key Takeaways
- Reheat in oven at 350°F for 5-10 mins or microwave wrapped in damp paper towel for 20 secs.
- Use moisture (damp towel or foil with water) to prevent drying out
- For crispiness, skip the foil and bake directly on a rack
- Frozen pretzels need 2-3 extra minutes in the oven
Oven Method: Best for Crispy Exteriors
Preheat your oven to 350°F for optimal texture. According to baking expert Sarah Johnson, “Low-and-slow heating preserves the pretzel’s moisture while reactivating the Maillard reaction for that signature crust.” Follow these steps:
- Lightly dampen a paper towel and wrap it around the pretzel (or place 1 tbsp water inside foil)
- Place on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack for crispiness
- Heat for 5-7 minutes (add 2-3 mins if frozen)
- Brush with melted butter for extra shine
| Pretzel Type | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh (1-2 days old) | 5 mins | 350°F |
| Frozen | 8-10 mins | 350°F |
Microwave Method: Quick but Requires Care
While faster, microwaving risks uneven heating. A America’s Test Kitchen study found steam is critical—wrap pretzels in a damp paper towel and microwave in 15-second bursts. Overheating creates rubbery spots.
Step-by-Step:
- Place pretzel on a microwave-safe plate
- Cover with a damp (not dripping) paper towel
- Heat for 15 seconds, check, then repeat if needed
- Let rest 1 minute to redistribute heat
Air Fryer: The New Contender
Air fryers circulate hot air like convection ovens but faster. Spray frozen pretzels with water and cook at 330°F for 3-4 minutes. The Food Network recommends this for avoiding sogginess.
FAQ
Can I reheat pretzels in a toaster?
Yes, but use the lowest setting and wrap in foil to prevent burning. Monitor closely—toasters vary widely in heat intensity.
Why does my microwaved pretzel get tough?
Microwaves zap moisture. Always use a damp towel and don’t exceed 30 seconds total.
How long do reheated pretzels last?
Consume within 2 hours. Repeated reheating degrades texture.
Final Words
With these methods, stale pretzels can taste fresh-baked again. For best results, prioritize moisture and gentle heat. Now go enjoy that warm, salty goodness—you’ve earned it!
