Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups warm water (105°F–115°F)
  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 9 cups water (for alkaline bath)
  • 0.5 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk 1.5 cups warm water, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of melted butter and gradually add flour 1 cup at a time until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 3–5 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Prepare the alkaline bath by bringing 9 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
  5. Divide dough into 8 pieces. Roll into 22-inch ropes and twist into a pretzel shape.
  6. Drop pretzels into boiling water for 30 seconds each. Remove with a slotted spatula and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  7. Brush with egg wash (egg beaten with 1 tbsp water) and sprinkle with coarse salt.
  8. Bake for 12 minutes or until dark golden brown. Brush with remaining 3 tablespoons of melted butter immediately after removing from the oven.