Homemade Pretzels

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 package (1/4 ounce) quick-rise yeast
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1-1/2 cups warm water (120° to 130°)
1 egg, beaten
Coarse salt


In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add water. Beat just until moistened. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough.

Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 4-6 minutes (I just did this in my Kitchenaid). Cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Divide dough into 16 equal portions; roll each into a 15-in. rope. Cover and let rest 10 minutes longer.

Twist into pretzel shapes. Place on greased baking sheets; brush with egg. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes. Brush again with egg; sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake 10-13 minutes longer or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks. Serve pretzels warm with dip. Yield: 16 pretzels.