Our Favorite Soft Pretzels

Soft pretzels have long been a family favorite of ours. Whenever my kids go to a fair its one of their favorite treats. Here is our favorite recipe very similar to those served at the fair in flavor.

Mix Together:

1 Tablespoon Yeast

1 Tablespoon Sugar

2 Cups Warm Water

1 Cup Flour

Sift together 4 Cups flour and 1 Tablespoon of salt set aside.

In large bowl, stir yeast, sugar and warm water.

Let rest til yeast is dissolved and is a little foamy.

Stir in 1 cup flour. Then rest of flour mixed with the 1 Tbl salt.

Knead on lightly floured surface til smooth.

Place in oiled bowl, rolling around til all oiled.

Cover and let rise till doubled in size.

Remove and knead again just a little bit, gently.

Cut into 16 pcs., roll each pc.into 14" ropes, shape into pretzels and place on greased cookie sheet.

Cover and let rise 15 minutes.

Prepare a pot of boiling water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda (Optional). Gently drop each pretzel into boiling water and boil 1 minute. Gently remove with slotted spoon and place on lightly oiled cookie sheet. Repeat with each pretzel.

Gently brush each pretzel with egg wash (1 egg beaten with fork) and sprinkle lightly with coarse salt if desired.

Bake in pre heated 450 degree oven for 12 to 15 minutes.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or just plain for a tasty delight.