Poppy Seed Pretzel Recipe

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, dissolve 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast in 1 1/2 cups of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix in 4 cups of all-purpose flour to form a dough.

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Shape the Pretzels

Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and then shape them into pretzels.

Prepare Baking Soda Bath

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a boil. Carefully dip each shaped pretzel into the boiling solution for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spatula and place on a lined baking sheet.

Add Poppy Seed Topping

Brush each pretzel with beaten egg and generously sprinkle with poppy seeds.

Bake the Pretzels

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.