AUNT ANNIE'S PRETZELS

Ingredients:

1 ½ C. warm water
2 pkg. dry yeast
2 T. brown sugar
1 1/8 tsp. salt
4 C. flour (can use 1 C. bread, 3 C. regular)
2 C. warm water
2 T. baking soda
desired pretzel toppings

Directions:

Sprinkle yeast in lukewarm water in mixing bowl. Stir to dissolve. Add sugar, salt and stir. Add flour and knead dough until smooth. Let rise in greased bowl ½ hour. Mix warm water and soda in separate bowl. After dough has risen, pinch off pieces and roll into long, skinny ropes and then shape them into pretzels. Dip pretzel in soda water and place on greased cookie sheet. Let rise (opt.). Bake at 450 degrees until brown (about 10 minutes). Immediately dip in melted butter and sprinkle with salt or cinnamon sugar mixture. (Or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, garlic and oregano to make Italian bread sticks).

from Lori Stutler's friend, Kim