1 c. warm water
1 pkg. active dry yeast
2 3/4 c. flour
2 tbsp. soft butter
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. sugar

Dissolve yeast in warm water; add to 1 1/2 cups of flour, butter, salt, sugar and beat. Stir in 1 1/4 cups flour; knead until dough loses its stickiness. Let rise in covered greased bowl until doubled in size. Punch down and divide into 12 pieces; with palm of hand roll into 18 inch lengths. Twist into knots.

Place on a greased cookie sheet. Let rise until doubled. Preheat oven 450 degrees.

Have ready: 4 cups boiling water and 5 tablespoons baking soda.

Do not use aluminum pan. With slotted spoon carefully lower pretzels into water for about 1 minute (or until they float to the top). Take out of water. Put on greased cookie sheet. Bake about 12 minutes or until brown.