Charcut's Buttery Soft Pretzel Sticks

By Cooky

Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cup AP flour
• 1 1/2 tsp instant yeast (I used quick)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp packed brown sugar (I have used Maple Syrup and Rogers Golden)
• 3/4 cup lukewarm water
• Topping
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 1/2 tsp coarse salt
• 1 T melted butter

Preparation

Step 1

1. Stir flour with yeast, 1/4 tsp salt and sugar in the bowl of an electric stand mixer with paddle attachment, until combined.
2. Add 3/4 cup lukewarm water and beat on medium for 5 minutes.
3. Remove dough and spray bowl with Pam. Return the dough to the bowl.
4. Cover with a damp kitchen towel (not terry) and let rise at room temperature for 1 hour, until doubled in size.
5. Divide dough into 6 equal portions on a lightly floured counter.
6. Cover and let sit for 20 minutes more.
7. Preheat oven to 475'. Lightly spray a baking sheet.
8. Roll each portion into 10 inche baguette-style sticks. (I used my hands)
9. Lay crosswise on the baking sheet.
10. Stir baking soda with the hot water, and generously brush each stick.
11. Sprinkle with salt (or on a course grind).
12. Bake in the centre of the oven for 8 - 10 minutes (10 is good).
13. Remove from oven and immediately brush with butter. 159 calories each