Making Pretzels with the kids

Today, since it was rainy, I needed to find a craft or recipe that could entertain the kids for awhile.  So I found a recipe for making pretzels.  

I have to admit that they aren't the tastiest pretzels, but it was fun making them.  And it was fun seeing what kind of shapes the kids would make. 

Here's the recipe if you'd like to try them out.  We used whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.  

3 c. unsifted flour

2 T. sugar

1/2 tsp. salt

1 pkg. active dry yeast

1 c. water

1 T. margarine

1 egg yolk, beaten

1 T. water

-Mix one cup of flour, sugar, salt and yeast.

-Heat one cup water and margarine to 120-130 degrees.  Gradually add that mixture to the dry ingredients and beat for 2 minutes on medium speed with a mixer.  

-Add half a cup of flour and beat at high speed for 2 minutes.  Stir in enough additional flour to make the dough soft.  

-On a floured board, knead for 5 minutes.  Set in a greased bowl (turn to grease top). Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 40 minutes.  

-Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll into a 12-in. rope.  

-Now shape the pretzels into any form you like.  Kids will develop wonderful new shapes.  Place on greased cookie sheets, cover, and le rise for 5 minutes.

-Mix the egg yolk and tablespoon of water.  Brush on pretzels.  Sprinkle with coarse salt or omit.

-Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until done.  Cool on racks.