Soft Pretzels

I have made these several times since finding the recipe a few weeks ago and they have turned out amazing each time.  Definitely delicious and worth the couple extra steps it takes to make pretzels.  

After you've mixed up the dough and let it risen a while cut into 8 equal pieces and roll out into a long snake shape.  * I had some trouble getting my dough to rise this last time and I think it was because my kitchen was too cold.  If you suspect this is your problem you can place in a slightly warm oven or I placed my bowl on the mantel with the fireplace on. Worked like a charm. 

Fold each side over to make the pretzel shape or roll the dough into small balls to make bites.
A little helper can make this task so much harder easier.  At least she is adorable!

Dip pretzel into the baking soda and water mixture

Now to find some delicious dipping sauces!

Soft Pretzels

2 C. Flour (can use all white flour if desired use 2 1/2 C white and omit the 1/2 C whole wheat) 

1/2 C. Whole Wheat Flour 

1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 pkg instant yeast
1 C warm water (110 degrees F)

Before placing in the oven:

1/2 c  water
1 Tbsp Baking soda
Pretzel Salt or just regular salt works too!

Dissolve the yeast in the cup of water.  Combine all other ingredients and mix just until blended.  Knead with your mixer or by hand.  I use a mixer to knead and it takes about 3 min to get a smooth ball.  You want your dough to be soft and not sticky.  Flour the ball of dough and let rise about an hour.  I usually just let the cover the  mixer bowl with a towel and leave to rise.  

Combine water and baking soda and microwave 1 min.  Mix thoroughly and set aside.  Grease your cookie sheet. Cut your dough into 8 equal pieces.  Roll each piece into a long strand and form into a pretzel shape.  Dip the pretzel shape into the mixture of baking soda water and place on a greased pan. Sprinkle salt or topping of your choice over the pretzels.  Place pan into your oven and turn to 450 degrees.  (Placing them in the oven without preheating just allows them to rise for a few min before baking.)  Bake for 12-14min or until golden brown.




Adapted from original recipe found here:  http://busy-at-home.com/blog/hot-buttered-pretzels/