Soft Pretzels

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115 degrees F)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 4-5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons baking soda
• Coarse salt for topping

Directions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm water, sugar, salt, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes, until the mixture is frothy.
2. Add 4 cups of the flour, and using the dough hook, mix on low speed until the dough comes together. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it is no longer sticky.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead it for 5 minutes. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
4. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope, and shape into a pretzel. Place the pretzels on the prepared baking sheets.
6. In a large bowl, dissolve the baking soda in 6 cups of warm water. Dip each pretzel into the baking soda solution, and place back on the baking sheets.
7. Sprinkle with coarse salt and bake for 12-14 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Interesting Facts

• Pretzels were first created by monks in the 7th century.
• The traditional pretzel shape is meant to resemble arms crossed in prayer.
• The pretzel is the official snack food of Pennsylvania.