Soft Homemade Pretzels (Source: adapted from allrecipes.com)

1 package active dry yeast

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cup warm water (110 degrees F)

3 1/4 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

8 cups water (for dipping pretzels)

2/3 cup baking soda

2 tablespoons butter, melted

2 tablespoons sea salt

1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve yeast, brown sugar, and salt in 1 1/2 cups warm water. Stir in 3 cups of flour and knead in the remaining amount of flour just until dough is not sticky. Continue to knead in the bowl until the dough is smooth and elastic. Grease the bottom on the bowl and turn dough to coat both sides. Cover, and let rise for an hour.

2. Preheat oven to 450 degree F

3. After the dough has risen, cut into 12 pieces and roll into ropes about 20-inches to 22-inches. Twist into pretzel shapes.

4. While shaping the dough add water to a large kettle along with the baking soda, bring water to almost the boiling point. Once the dough has been shaped lower them into the heat water for 30 seconds. Remove and place on a greased baking sheet.

5. Once the pretzels are done with the water and placed on the greased baking sheet, take an egg yolk and beat with one tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the pretzels with the egg yolk.

6. Bake in the preheat oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sea salt or your favorite topping.