Copycat Auntie Anne's Pretzel Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon coarse salt

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add salt and flour, mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Punch down dough and divide into 8 pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a 24-inch rope.
7. Shape into pretzel form.
8. In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a boil.
9. Boil each pretzel for 30 seconds.
10. Place on greased baking sheet.
11. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
12. Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.