Basic Soft Pretzels

• warm milk1 cup
• packet of dry yeast1
• brown sugar↗3 tablespoon
• melted butter↗2 tablespoon
• salt↗1 teaspoon
• all-purpose flour↗2.25 cup
• additional flour for dusting
• baking soda, dissolved in 3-4 cups of warm water↗0.25 cup
• egg↗1
• coarse salt↗

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Dough preparation: In a mixing bowl, gently whisk warm milk, yeast, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. Add flour and mix until a dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a flour‑dusted surface and knead 10‑15 times.

2. 2

   Dough resting: Return it to the bowl and spray a little oil to prevent sticking. Cover with a cloth or plastic wrap and let sit for an hour to rise.

3. 3

   Shaping pretzels: When the dough has risen, soften it and divide into 6‑8 pieces. Roll each piece into a very long thin strip. Form a pretzel from it. Dip in the soda solution and place on a parchment‑lined tray.

4. 4

   Baking: Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with salt. Bake at 450 °F for 10‑12 minutes until golden‑brown. DELICIOUS! Serve with cheese sauce, mustard, or my favorite – a beer‑cheese soup.