Homemade Soft Pretzels Recipe (with Video)

Preparing the Dough
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the fast-rising yeast, brown sugar, and warm water.
2. Let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
3. Add the flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture.
4. Mix well until the dough starts to come together.
5. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
6. Knead the dough for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
7. Grease a bowl with oil and place the dough in it.
8. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until the dough doubles in size.
Preparing the Pretzels
1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Take the risen dough and divide it into about 8-10 equal-sized portions.
4. Cover the portions you're not currently working on with a towel to prevent them from drying out.
5. Shape one portion of the dough into a pretzel shape following the instructions in the video.
Boiling and Baking the Pretzels
1. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil.
2. Carefully put the pretzel into the boiling water and boil it for 30 seconds on each side.
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pretzel from the water and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Repeat step 2 and 3 for the remaining portions of dough, one at a time.
5. In a small bowl, beat an egg to make an egg wash.
6. Brush the tops of the pretzels with the egg wash and sprinkle them with coarse sea salt.
7. Bake the pretzels in the preheated oven for about 13 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.