Amish Soft Pretzels

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110-115°F)

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons kosher salt

• 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)

• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 10 cups water

• 2/3 cup baking soda

• 1 large egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water

• Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt for sprinkling

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted for coating

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and kosher salt. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.

2. Add the flour and melted butter to the mixing bowl and mix until a dough forms.

3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

5. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

6. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.

7. While the water is boiling, divide the dough into 8 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope, about 22 inches in length. Twist the rope into a pretzel shape.

8. Once the water has boiled, reduce the heat to medium. Gently lower each pretzel into the water, one at a time, for about 30 seconds each. Using a slotted spoon, remove each pretzel and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

9. Brush each pretzel with the egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with coarse sea salt or pretzel salt.

10. Bake the pretzels for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown.

11. Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.

12. Brush the melted butter onto each pretzel, making sure to coat all sides.

13. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your freshly baked Amish Soft Pretzels!