Homemade Soft Pretzels

I don't know about you, but every time I walk through the mall and get a whiff of a giant pretzel stand, I'm drooling. Whether served sweet with frosting or salty with cheese sauce, soft pretzels can make a delicious treat. And, when made at home, they can be a frequent treat because of their low cost!

Here is a very simple recipe for soft pretzels that you can have fun whipping up together with your kids:

Homemade Soft Pretzels

• 4 t. active dry yeast
• 1 t. sugar
• 1-1/4 c. warm water
• 5 c. flour
• 1/2 c. sugar
• 1-1/2 t. salt
• 1 T. vegetable oil
• 1/2 c. baking soda
• 4 c. water

In a small bowl, combine yeast, 1 t. sugar and warm water and let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes). In a separate bowl, combine flour, 1/2 c. sugar and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in vegetable oil and yeast mixture. Mix well, forming into a dough (if dough is dry, add 1 to 2 tablespoons water). Knead the dough until smooth (about 5 to 6 minutes). Place dough in a bowl and coat with vegetable oil. Cover and let sit at room temperature for one hour.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Bring 4 cups water to a rolling boil and add baking soda. Remove from heat and stir until baking soda is completely dissolved. Divide dough into 12 equal pieces and roll into long ropes, then form into pretzel shape. Submerge each pretzel, one at a time, in baking soda mixture for 30 seconds. Place on lightly greased baking sheet and sprinkle with Kosher salt or cinnamon and sugar. Bake for 8 minutes or until brown.

Enjoy!

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