By Lucy Yanckello, Ph.D.
What’s the difference: Bavarian pretzel vs. soft pretzel vs. hard pretzel vs. pretzel buns?
The main difference between these types of pretzels comes down to the dough and how it is baked. All four start with a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, this is where things differ, as the soft and bavarian versions often add butter, malt, or sugar for a more tender bite. What sets a pretzel apart from other types of bread is the alkaline bath that the dough takes before baking. Bavarian pretzels traditionally use a food-grade lye solution, while most soft pretzels use a baking soda bath. The dip is what builds the deep brown crust and signature pretzel flavor. Pretzel buns, like Wildgrain’s Bavarian Pretzel Buns, are made the same way, but are shaped into rolls instead of the signature pretzel twist.
Hard pretzels are made using less water in the dough, and once they take the alkaline dip, they are baked low and slow until almost all the moisture is gone. This low and slow baking process is what gives them their crunch, but is also what removes most of their nutrients.
Which is healthier to eat, Bavarian pretzel vs. soft pretzel vs. hard pretzel vs. pretzel buns?
Bavarian and soft pretzels made with whole grain flour to offer the most nutritional benefits. Whole grain flour provides more fiber, B vitamins, and minerals than refined white flour. Pretzel buns fall into the same category, especially when they anchor a balanced meal. Wildgrain’s Bavarian Pretzel Buns work well paired with a turkey burger and a side of vegetables. Although hard pretzels are lower in calories, they lean on refined flour and a large amount of salt. As such, hard pretzels don't bring much to the table besides crunch.
Can diabetics eat pretzels? Are pretzels ok for diabetics?
People with diabetes can enjoy pretzels, though the type and portion matter. Most pretzels rank high on the glycemic index. This means they raise blood sugar quickly because refined flour digests fast causing blood sugar to spike quickly. A pretzel made with whole grain flour dampens the glycemic response because the fiber content slows digestion. Pairing a Wildgrain Artisanal Bavarian Pretzel with protein or fat, such as nut butter or cheese, helps slow digestion and keep blood sugar from spiking as quickly.
Is it healthy to eat pretzels every day? Is it ok to eat pretzels every day?
Eating pretzels everyday can fit into a balanced diet, as long as you pay attention to nutritional quality and portion size. Conventional hard and mass-produced soft pretzels are high in sodium and low in fiber and protein. This means they do little to keep you full. A pretzel built on whole grains gives you more fiber and micronutrients which will keep you feeling fuller for longer. Warming a Wildgrain Artisanal Bavarian Pretzel and enjoying it with a protein rich dip such as greek yogurt or a side of lean protein will help keep you fuller for longer and curb cravings. Enjoying this snack a few times a week is a much more nutritionally beneficial routine than a daily bag of salted hard pretzels.
Can celiacs eat pretzels? Are pretzels ok for celiac disease?
Traditional pretzels are not safe for people with celiac disease since they are made from wheat flour and thus contain gluten. With celiac disease, even a small amount of gluten can trigger an immune response that damages the lining of your small intestine. For that reason, conventional pretzels are best avoided entirely. Gluten free pretzels do exist and use flours like rice, tapioca, or almond. The dough behaves differently due to this, so the texture and flavor are different from traditional pretzels. If you have celiac disease, be sure to look for pretzels that are certified gluten-free and are made in a dedicated facility. A gastroenterologist or registered dietician can help you find options that are safe for you to enjoy.
What is the healthiest pretzel to eat? What is the best type of pretzel to eat?
The healthiest pretzel to eat is one that you enjoy. Look for whole grain flour and a short ingredient list. Paying attention to sodium is important too. Some pretzels have more than 400 mg in a single serving. Warming a Wildgrain’s Artisanal Bavarian Pretzel and topping it with something protein rich turns a simple snack into something more satisfying.
How do I choose a great pretzel for home delivery? What is the best Bavarian pretzel that I can get at home?
Choosing a great pretzel for home delivery starts with the ingredient list. Look for whole or minimally processed flours and other ingredients you recognize such as water, salt, and yeast. Simplicity usually points to better quality dough. Freshness matters too. A pretzel baked fresh and then flash frozen before shipping tastes much closer to what you get in a bakery than what you get out of a shelf-stable bag. Wildgrain’s Artisanal Bavarian Pretzel and Bavarian Pretzel Buns are crafted by skilled bakers and frozen at peak freshness and are some of the best pretzels for home delivery. You bake them straight from frozen meaning you can have a bakery-quality pretzel at home in minutes.
Where can I buy the best fresh pretzels online for home delivery?
At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh baked goods that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular pretzels include Wildgrain's Artisanal Bavarian Pretzels and Wildgrain’s Bavarian Pretzel Buns. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.
Lucy Yanckello received her Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. She currently works as a medical writer and enjoys being able to help people better understand nutrition and science.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.



