Thumbs Up Soft Pretzels

This recipe makes 8 pretzels - I guarantee it won't be enough! These are my kids favorite snack, they ask for them constantly. Change them up by using different flavorings on them like they do at the mall. Our favorite is garlic salt.

1 1/8 c warm water
1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
3 Tbls corn syrup
3 c bread flour
1 1/2 tsp salt

2 quarts water
1/2 cup baking soda

garlic salt

Mix 1 1/8 cup water and yeast and allow to sit. Put in mixing bowl and add corn syrup. Mix in flour and salt. Knead for about 5 minutes in mixer. Place in a large greased bowl and let it rise until double (about one hour)

Punch dough down and divide dough into eight balls. Roll each into a 20 inch rope; form into pretzel shape. Let rise about 5 minutes.

In a saucepan, bring 2 quarts water and baking soda to a boil. Drop pretzels into boiling water, two at a time; boil for 10-15 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon or spatula; drain on a clean towel.

Place pretzels on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Bake at 415 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Spritz or lightly brush with butter. Sprinkle with garlic salt and serve warm.

Try other flavors like cinnamon sugar, coarse salt, cream cheese............

Pretzels do not keep, or reheat, well but it won't be a problem, they won't last long enough to save :)