CHEWY SOFT PRETZELS

Chewy Soft Pretzels image

These homemade pretzels never last long around our house. My kids love to make them...and eat them! I serve them to company with a variety of dips, such as pizza sauce, ranch dressing, spinach dip or hot mustard. -Elvira Martens, Aldergrove, British Columbia

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Snacks

Time 1h15m

Yield 1 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1-1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
4 to 4-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
8 cups water
1/2 cup baking soda
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Optional toppings: Kosher salt, sesame seeds, poppy seeds and grated Parmesan cheese

Steps:

Dissolve yeast in warm water. In a large bowl, combine sugar, salt, yeast mixture and 2 cups flour; beat on medium speed until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a stiff dough. , Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. , Punch down dough; divide and shape into 12 balls. Roll each into a 22-in. rope; shape into a pretzel., Preheat oven to 425°. Place water and baking soda in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Place pretzels, 1 at a time, in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove; drain on paper towels that have been lightly sprayed with cooking spray. , Place on greased baking sheets. Brush with egg; top as desired. Bake until golden brown, 12-14 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks; serve warm.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 164 calories, Fat 1g fat (0 saturated fat), Cholesterol 16mg cholesterol, Sodium 400mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate (1g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 5g protein.