Soft Pretzels

Directions

1. 1
   In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
2. 2
   Add the sugar, butter, salt, egg and 2 cups flour.
3. 3
   Beat until smooth.
4. 4
   Stir in enough remaining flour to form a stiff dough.
5. 5
   Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top.
6. 6
   Cover and refrigerate for 2-24 hours.
7. 7
   Punch dough down.
8. 8
   Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide in half.
9. 9
   Cut each into 16 pieces.
10. 10
    Roll each piece into a 20-in.
11. 11
    rope.
12. 12
    Shape into a pretzel.
13. 13
    Place on greased baking sheets.
14. 14
    Beat egg yolk and cold water; brush over pretzels.
15. 15
    Sprinkle with coarse salt.
16. 16
    Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 25 minutes.
17. 17
    Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
18. 18
    Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.
19. 19
    **Cook time does not include refrigeration time of 2 - 24 hours.