1 pkg. active dry yeast
1 1/2 c. warm water
1 tbsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
4 c. flour
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp. water
1 1/2 tbsp. coarse salt

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line baking pan with foil. Dissolve yeast in warm water. Add sugar and salt. Mix well. Add flour, mix well. Turn dough onto lightly floured surface and knead until smooth, about 5 minutes. Cut dough into 16 pieces and roll each piece with hands to form a roll 10 to 12 inches long. Form each roll into a shape, letter, number, etc.

Place on foil-lined baking sheet. Beat egg yolk with water and brush onto pretzels. Sprinkle with salt. Bake at 425 degrees for 15 to 25 minutes.