Ham & Cheese Pretzels

What you need:

• 1 pkg. active dry yeast
• 2 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. brown sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped ham
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 cups hot water
• 2 tsp. baking soda
• 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted, if desired
• Coarse salt

Directions:

1. Combine yeast, 1 tsp. brown sugar, and warm water in a stand mixer. Let proof for 5 to 8 minutes.
2. Stir together 2 Tbsp. brown sugar with warm milk until it dissolves.
3. Add milk mixture plus 2 1/2 cups flour into stand mixer with yeast and stir until a soft dough forms. Add as much of the remaining flour as needed. Knead for a few minutes.
4. Cover bowl and let rise for about 2 hours.
5. Divide dough into 4 pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll one piece to 12x4 inch rectangle (long side facing you - like a hot dog) and press 1/4 of the ham and 1/4 of the the cheese into one side of the dough. Wrap up the filling and cut into 12 pieces.
6. Place on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with other 3 pieces of dough.
7. Let rest and rise for 30 minutes.
8. Dissolve baking soda in hot water and brush over top of pretzel bites. If not using butter, sprinkle with salt now.
9. Bake about 15 minutes at 400*.
10. Brush with melted butter, if desired, then sprinkle with salt (unless you did it before).

Recipe from Pennies on a Platter