Soft Pretzels

Directions

1. 1
   In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water.
2. 2
   Add sugar, salt, butter and egg.
3. 3
   Stir in 3 cups of flour; mix until smooth. Add enough additional flour to make a stiff dough.
4. 4
   Cover bowl tightly with foil; refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours.
5. 5
   Punch dough down and divide in half.
6. 6
   On a lightly floured surface, cut each half into 16 equal pieces.
7. 7
   Roll each piece into a 20-inch rope. Shape into the traditional pretzel shape and place on a greased baking sheet.
8. 8
   In a small bowl, combine egg yolk and water; brush over the pretzels.
9. 9
   Sprinkle with salt if desired.
10. 10
    Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 25 minutes.
11. 11
    Bake at 400° for 15 minutes or until brown.
12. 12
    Yield:
13. 13
    32 pretzels.