Soft Dough Pretzels 030710

1 1/2 c. water
2 c. all-purpose flour
1 pkg. active dry yeast
1 1/2 tsp. sugar
3/4 tsp. salt
2-2 1/2 c. flour
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp. water
Coarse salt

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Heat water to 120 degrees. In large bowl, combine 2 cups flour and yeast, sugar, salt and warmed water. Mix for 3 minutes. Add 2 cups flour and continue kneading for 3 minutes. If dough is sticky, knead in enough of remaining 1/2 cup flour to form a soft dough.

Shape into a ball. On a floured surface, cut into 16 pieces and roll with hands into approximately 12 inch ropes. Shape as pretzels and put on foil covered cookie sheets. Beat egg yolks and 1 tablespoon water until well blended. Coat dough with egg mixture and sprinkle with salt. Bake in preheated 400 degree oven for 20 minutes. Remove from cookie sheets and cool on wire racks. Store no longer than 2 days.