Homemade Soft Pretzels

Ingredients

Warm water

1 1/2 cups, around 110°f (45°c)

Active dry yeast

2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet)

Granulated sugar

1 tablespoon

Salt

1 teaspoon

All-purpose flour

4 cups, plus extra for dusting

Baking soda

2/3 cup

Coarse salt

for sprinkling on top

Egg

1, beaten (for egg wash)

Mustard (for dipping)

to taste

Cheese sauce (optional)

for serving

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy.
2. Add the salt and 4 cups of flour to the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for approximately 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda and stir until dissolved.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, approximately 24 inches long, and shape it into a pretzel.
8. Dip each pretzel into the boiling water mixture for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt to taste.
10. Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.
11. Allow the pretzels to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite mustard or cheese sauce for dipping!