Soft Pretzels

Here's a super easy (and fun!) snack idea... Soft Pretzels!

Ingredients:

~ Makes 6 large or 12 small pretzels ~

3 1/2 cup flour (I use white whole wheat)

4 tablespoons brown sugar

2 teaspoon salt (preferably coarse)

1 tablespoon yeast, dissolved in the water

1 cup water, fairly warm, but not hot

Separately in a small bowl: 2 teaspoons baking soda mixed with 1 cup hot water

Optional: 1 egg beaten with 1 teaspoon of water (in a separate small bowl)

Directions:

Mix water/yeast, brown sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add flour and and mix until dough is smooth. Add more flour if sticky.

Divide the dough into 6 or 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a thin rope. Twist into desired shapes (we made some "traditional" pretzel shapes, and even a few shaped like fish!).

After shaping, dip the pretzels into the water-soda solution. Place on a greased baking sheet (or baking sheet covered in parchment paper) and let raise for approx. 35-40 minutes.

Brush with beaten egg and water solution (optional). Then sprinkle with topping of your choice:

Course Salt

Sesame Seeds

Parmesan Cheese

Cinnamon

Bake in hot oven at 450 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until well browned. Enjoy!