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Pretzel is a type of baked pastry made from dough that is commonly shaped into a distinctive knot. The dough is typically made from wheat flour, water, and yeast, and is often treated with a lye solution before baking, which gives pretzels their characteristic brown crust and unique flavor. While pretzels are enjoyed worldwide, they have a particularly strong association with Germany and its Oktoberfest celebrations, where they are a popular snack.

The origins of the pretzel are somewhat debated, with some legends tracing their creation back to the early Middle Ages. One popular story suggests that a monk in Europe created pretzels as a reward for children who learned their prayers, with the shape representing arms crossed in prayer. Over time, pretzels evolved from a simple baked good to a symbol with various cultural and religious significances.

Pretzels come in a wide variety of forms, from soft, large pretzels often sold at fairs and sporting events, to small, hard, and crispy pretzels that are a common snack food. Sweet versions, coated in chocolate or adorned with sprinkles, are also popular. The versatility of pretzels has allowed them to be adapted into many different culinary traditions and enjoyed in numerous ways, both as a standalone snack and as an accompaniment to various dishes.