Homemade Pretzels

Name: Homemade Pretzels
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 20 pretzels
Ingredients: 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast; 1-1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°); 4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 cup cold water; Coarse salt

Total Time Prep: 25 min. + rising Bake: 15 min.

Yield 20 pretzels

Test Kitchen Approved

These pretzels are crisp on the outside and chewy inside. They rival many of the hot pretzels found in stores.—Suzanne McKinley, Lyons, Georgia

Ingredients

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
1-1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
4-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 cup cold water
Coarse salt

Directions

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add flour and salt; stir to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead 4-5 times. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 15 minutes.
Punch dough down and divide into 20 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 15-in. long strip; twist into a pretzel shape. Combine baking soda and cold water; brush over pretzels. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
Place on greased baking sheets. Bake at 450° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.