​Homemade Pretzels

​Ingredients:

• For the Pretzel Dough:
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F or 45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• For the Baking Soda Bath:
  • 10 cups water
  • 2/3 cup baking soda
• For Topping:
  • Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until foamy.
   • Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Soda Bath:
   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
   • In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the baking soda until dissolved. Remove from heat.
4. Shape the Pretzels:
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
   • Roll each piece into a long rope, about 18 inches long. Shape each rope into a pretzel shape by forming a U, then crossing the ends over each other and pressing them down onto the bottom of the U.
5. Dip in Baking Soda Bath:
   • Carefully place each pretzel into the baking soda bath, one at a time, for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spatula to remove them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Add Toppings:
   • Sprinkle each pretzel with coarse sea salt or pretzel salt.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzels are deep golden brown.
8. Cool:
   • Let the pretzels cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Dough: Ensure your water is warm but not too hot to activate the yeast.
• Shaping: If the dough sticks while shaping, lightly flour your surface or your hands.
• Baking Soda Bath: This step gives the pretzels their signature flavor and chewy texture.

Enjoy your homemade pretzels fresh from the oven, perfect for snacking or dipping in mustard or cheese sauce!