German Soft Pretzel Sticks (Printable Version)

Soft pretzel sticks with a golden crust and a tender crumb, flavored with coarse sea salt.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar
02 - 2 cups warm water (approximately 110°F)
03 - 5 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
04 - 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
05 - 5 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus additional for kneading)

→ Baking Soda Bath

06 - 3/4 cup baking soda
07 - 8 cups water
08 - 1 cup hot water (to maintain temperature during batches)

→ Finishing

09 - 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
10 - 1 tablespoon butter (for buttering parchment)
11 - Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Combine light brown sugar and warm water in a large bowl until sugar dissolves. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the surface and let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
02 - Add oil and 3 cups flour to the yeast mixture, stir, then gradually incorporate remaining 2 3/4 cups flour. Knead on medium speed for 3 minutes until smooth and slightly sticky. Add up to 1/4 cup more flour if needed.
03 - Place dough in a greased bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and let rise at room temperature for 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
04 - Preheat oven to 450°F. Line three large baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly butter the paper to prevent sticking.
05 - Punch down dough on a floured surface, knead lightly, then flatten. Divide into 24 equal pieces. Roll each into a stick approximately 7-8 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Arrange on baking sheets 2 inches apart and let rest uncovered for 25 minutes.
06 - Bring 8 cups of water and baking soda to a boil in a large deep skillet. Reduce to medium heat to maintain a simmer. Keep 1 cup hot water ready to add between batches to maintain temperature.
07 - Boil 6 sticks at a time for 30 seconds, turning once after 15 seconds. Remove and drain on paper towels. Add hot water between batches to maintain temperature. Repeat until all are boiled.
08 - Place boiled sticks back on baking sheets, brush tops evenly with egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
09 - Bake in preheated oven for 10 minutes or until deep golden brown with a crisp crust.
10 - Present warm or at room temperature.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Maintain water temperature between batches in the baking soda bath to ensure consistent texture.

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