Golden Soft Pretzels

Ingredients

• 2¼ teaspoon active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1⅓ cup warm water (105-115F)
• 3¾ cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg white
• ½ cup baking soda
• 1 cup warm water (105-115F)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons honey
• Course sea salt, for sprinkling

Directions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add the flour, salt, melted butter, and egg white. Knead on low speed for 5 minutes, or until the dough is soft and smooth.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp towel. Let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat the oven to 425F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 24 inches long and shape into pretzels.
6. In a medium bowl, combine the baking soda and warm water. Dip each pretzel in the mixture and place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter and honey.
8. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Pretzels were originally invented in 610 AD by an Italian monk.
• In Germany, pretzels are traditionally served with beer.
• The traditional shape of a pretzel is meant to represent arms crossed in prayer.