Are Pretzels Dairy Free? Let's explore this soft snack (2024)

*post updated on 16/7/2024*

As a dietitian specialising in supporting parents of children with food allergies, I often get asked about common snacks and their potential allergens. One question that comes up frequently is:Are pretzels dairy-free?

Before we answer that, let’s clarify what kind of pretzel we’re discussing. Are we talking about the crunchy, hard pretzels, or the warm, plaited pretzel with a chewy texture? Understanding the differences between these types can help us determine if they are safe for those with a milk allergy. Lets’ delve into some more information on this salty snack.

Why are Pretzels called Pretzels?

Whether soft or hard, a pretzel is a bread-based snack that is named basically because of its shape. The German word “bretzel” means “little bracelets” – cute!

When it comes to planning your little ones dairy free diet, it’s about the ingredients, not just the shape of these beloved treats.

So, Are pretzels dairy-free? The short answer is yes, pretzels are usually dairy-free, but there are a few things to watch out for to ensure there are no hidden allergens?

The Different Types of Pretzels

So there are two types of pretzels we generally see, let’s explore more.

Traditional Braided Soft Pretzels

Traditional pretzels (with a doughy texture) are very popular. Made from a fairly basic dough of wheat flour, yeast, warm water, and a little salt. This gives them their well known natural flavor and you can find these in many grocery stores.

They are often topped with natural ingredients such as; coarse salt, poppy or sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. So there are lots of allergy friendly products out there in the supermarket.

However, some soft pretzels might have dairy in the ingredients and I would also advise to look out for egg if avoiding. You might find ingredients such asbutter and milk, which are often used to give the pretzel a glaze.

Also keep a look out for common pretzel varieties such as those with cheddar cheese or parmesan garlic flavourings.

Crunchy Pretzels

Crunchy pretzels, unlike their soft, doughy counterparts, are often eaten as a different snacking experience, usually replacing the typical potato chips. These are generally smaller, a little drier, and have a satisfying crunch. They also tend to have an extended shelf-life meaning they can be a quick and easy snack for your little ones.

The good news is that most store-bought crunchy pretzels are also dairy free. These mini pretzels are generally made from the same main ingredients as their bigger soft pretzel friends. However, I would always give the ingredients a full check.

Why are pretzels brown?

Pretzels are famous for their brown golden crust, but why?

Traditionally, Lye, most commonly referred to as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), is used to make pretzels.This ingredient is generally the reason for their unmistakable shiny, mahogany color.

When the dough is formed into the knot we know the pretzel is dipped in a lye bath with boiling water and then baked in the oven giving them their brown color. You’ll probably spot sodium hydroxide on the ingredients list and wonder what it is. Well don’t worry, this isn’t a science experiment and the sodium hydroxide (lye) are suitable for use in food products.

But, if baking at home, you don’t need to use a lye bath. You can use the simple ingredients of baking soda and warm water to make abaking soda bath instead.This bath helps to create the rise and texture in our pretzels, much like the lye bath.

Here are some of my favourite diary free pretzel recipes you can try at home.

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try your hand at crafting your own dairy free soft pretzels I’ve got just the recipe for you.

Making homemade soft pretzels is also a great way to get your kids involved in the cooking.

Your whole family can enjoy the satisfaction of creating these classic treats from scratch, knowing that they are completely free from dairy.

With a simple dough made from wheat flour, yeast, warm water, and a touch of salt, you’ll be on your way to crafting the perfect pretzel.

My top 3 Dairy Free Pretzel Recipes

• Vegan Buttery Soft Pretzels from “It doesn’t taste like chicken.

These a similar to the original pretzel recipe but made with added sugar, agave or maple syrup, a few cups of water, yeast, flour, baking soda, and melted dairy-free butter. They also have great reviews which is a plus for me when trying out any new recipe.

• Vegan Pretzel bites from Nora Cooks

These are a little twist on the traditional type of pretzel and are cute vegan pretzel bites – perfect for a party or after nursery/school snack. These pretzels have similar basic ingredients to the others above but use brown sugar.

• 1 hour Vegan Pretzels (copycat of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, which my daughters absolutely love!)

Now I love Auntie Anne’s pretzels and I couldn’t resist trying this recipe, wow, yes, they are just the same. They contain brown sugar again in the dough mix. This recipe also gives you options for making cinnamon, dairy free parmesan garlic and also salted pretzels. Delicious!

Little tip, you can make pretzels by hand and I know my daughter like to get messy, but I always think it is a little easier to make the pretzel dough with a dough hook on your stand mixer! Also, remember the parchment paper as you don’t want your pretzels to stick to your baking sheet!

I love a warm homemade pretzel straight out of the oven and like to dust mine with some cinnamon sugar. If you fancy you could also use some dairy free chocolate to make chocolate-covered pretzels!

For a more savory option, I dip my pretzels in somevegan sour creamor just eat it warm straight from the oven.

What about a pretzel pizza? I know, a new slant but always a hit in our house. I simply spread a little tomato puree with some dairy free cheese and top with some fresh tomatoes.

Dairy Free Pretzel Brands

If you’re out and about you may want to grab an on the go snack. Here are some of my favorite dairy-free store-bought brands. jJust make sure to always double check the label to make sure they are free from milk products.

Ollys

This company does a wide range of dairy free pretzels from cheesy to sweet chili, there is definitely something for everyone.

Salt Rock Pretzel Bites

These pretzel bites are definitely an option to try next time you’re looking for something different from the tradition. They are not only dairy free but also really cute little bites for the whole family.

Hip – Cholate Salty Pretzels

These crunchy, salted pretzels are covered in oat chocolate. Yum!

Quinn Sea Salt Pretzel Sticks

These pretzels are not only dairy free but they also have a range of gluten-free options.

*All the above products are free from both egg and dairy products (according to manufacturer packaging, however, I would always check for may contains*

Why are pretzels so salty?

So, yes pretzels are suitable for a dairy-free diet (most of the time) and one of the oldest snack foods but yes they can be a little salty. The reason for their saltiness is not only because they traditionally have salt within the ingredients, but also sea salt or coarse salt sprinkled on to top.

As a dietitian, I would always advise you to monitor your little ones salt intake. I would also only really advise pretzels as a treat. It’s all about balance.

Here’s an idea of the levels ofsalt that shouldn’t be exceeded based on age.

So, Are Pretzels Dairy Free?

So, there you have it– the pretzel verdict! Are Pretzels Dairy Free? Yes (most of the time). As a dietitian who’s all about supporting families with little ones with food allergy it’s crucial for me to ensure that I give you all the correct advice you need.

Whether you’re eyeing those crunchy snacks or those soft, doughy delights, pretzels are often a popular choice and go to snack for the whole family. But, as I always say, before you start to enjoy this tasty treat just give the ingredient list a quick scan. Especially for the fancy-topped or flavored ones, be on the lookout and always check the label for milk.

Now, if you’re up for a little kitchen adventure (and who isn’t from time to time?), why not try making your very own pretzels? With some basic ingredients like soft wheat flour, yeast, glaze with some vegan butter and enjoy your warm pretzels straight from the oven.