Pretzel Buns

Ingredients:

Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Pretzel Bath:

• 8 cups water
• 1/2 cup baking soda

Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten
• Coarse pretzel salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
7. Shape each piece into a smooth ball. Place them on the baking sheet and let rest for 10 minutes.
8. Bring 8 cups of water to a gentle boil. Slowly add the baking soda.
9. Carefully place the buns into the baking soda bath, 2–3 at a time, and boil for 30 seconds per side.
10. Remove with a slotted spoon and return to the baking sheet.
11. Brush each bun with beaten egg and sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
12. Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cross or slash on the top of each bun.
13. Bake for 15–18 minutes, until deeply golden brown.
14. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.