Homemade Pretzels

Ingredients:
1 package active dry yeast or 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
1/2 C. warm water
1 egg, separated
1/4 C. honey
1/4 C. or 4 T. of unsalted butter, softened
1 C. milk
1 t. salt
5 C. freshly milled flour (equivalent to 3 ¼ cups wheat)
2 T. coarse sea salt

Directions:
In mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add egg yolk, honey, butter, milk, and salt. Mix thoroughly. Add flour one cup at a time until blended. On floured surface, knead dough for 5 minutes. Place dough in greased bowl and cover with a damp paper towel for 1 hour to let rise. Roll out on floured surface using a rolling pin. Cut into one-inch strips with a pizza cutter and roll into ropes. Shape dough into pretzels (I made different sizes as you can see below).

Place on baking baking sheet. Brush pretzels with egg whites and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake at 425 degrees for about 15 minutes. Serve with mustard or freeze for later enjoyment.