YEAST MIXTURE:

1/2 cup warm water
1 tsp. sugar
2 1/2 tsp. active dry yeast

Preheat oven to 425°F. Grease a large baking sheet. Combine water and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Sprinkle yeast over top. Let sit 10 minutes, then stir until yeast completely dissolves. Set aside.

PRETZEL DOUGH:

1 tbsp. sugar
1 cup warm water
1/2 tsp. salt
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

In large bowl; combine sugar and water until dissolved. Add salt, then the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour until a stiff dough forms (add an extra half cup if still sticky).

Turn out onto lightly floured surface. Knead about 10 to 15 times (until smooth and elastic). Let sit and rise for 10 minutes.

Divide dough into 8 equal portions, roll and twist each into pretzel shape. Put pretzels onto baking sheet.

EGG WASH:

1 beaten egg
1 tbsp. water
coarse salt and/or sesame seeds

Add water to the egg, then beat it. Brush each pretzel with egg and water and sprinkle with coarse salt and/or sesame seeds. Bake at 425°F for 12 to 15 minutes.

Submitted by: Nick K.