Soft Pretzels

I found this recipe for Soft Pretzels in a Gooseberry Patch magazine. I had a little extra time over the weekend and thought they would be a perfect afternoon snack for the kids. I have to admit, my pretzel shaping skills definitely need some work. My daughter told me "It tastes like a pretzel, but the shape is really not right." Oops. At least they tasted good!

Ingredients:
1 envelope active dry yeast
1 1/4 cup very warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
4 cups all purpose flour
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon water
1/4 cup salt

Step 1:
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Stir in sugar and salt until dissolved. Let yeast sit for 5 minutes.

Step 2:
Add flour, mix well. Turn onto floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.

Step 3:
Divide dough into 16 equal pieces.

Step 4:
Roll into strips; shape into pretzels.

Step 5:
Place on greased baking sheet. Brush with egg yolk and water. Sprinkle with salt. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes.

Thanks for Reading!
Daniele