Soft and Chewy Homemade Pretzels

Soft and Chewy Homemade Pretzels

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
10 cups water
2/3 cup baking soda
1 large egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Coarse salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly brush with oil.
In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil.
Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 24 inches long and shape it into a pretzel.
Carefully drop each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets.
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg yolk and water mixture. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the pretzels are golden brown.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.