Bayerische Brezen mit Butter

Ingredients

• 1 packet dry active yeast
• 1 cup warm water
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup baking soda
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt
• 10 cups water (for boiling)

Instructions

1. 1

   In a mixing bowl, combine 1 packet of dry active yeast, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture. Stir until combined.

3. 3

   Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

4. 4

   Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. 5

   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 24 inches) and shape it into a pretzel.

6. 6

   In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of baking soda carefully.

7. 7

   Boil each pretzel in the baking soda solution for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

8. 8

   Sprinkle the boiled pretzels with coarse sea salt and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

9. 9

   While the pretzels are baking, melt 1 stick of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat.

10. 10

    Remove the pretzels from the oven and brush them with the melted butter. Serve warm with additional butter on the side.