Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe (Makes 8 pretzels)
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F)
2 tbsp sugar
1 package active dry yeast
5 1/2 to 6 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
4 cups warm water
2/3 cup baking soda
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp water
Coarse salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy.
Add 5 1/2 cups of flour and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of warm water and baking soda to a boil.
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope.
Shape the dough into pretzel shapes, boiling each one for 30 seconds in the baking soda solution before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tbsp of water. Brush the egg wash over the pretzels and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Serve warm with mustard or cheese sauce, if desired. Enjoy!
