Rosemary Bliss: Irresistible Soft Pretzels

Elevate your snacking experience with these Rosemary Bliss Soft Pretzels – a delightful twist on the classic favorite. Infused with the aromatic flavor of rosemary and sprinkled with coarse salt, these homemade pretzels are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you longing for more. Follow this simple recipe to experience the bliss of freshly baked pretzels right in your own kitchen.

#### Ingredients

- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

#### Instructions

**Step 1: Activate the Yeast**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy.

**Step 2: Prepare the Dough**
1. Add the flour, salt, and chopped rosemary to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if the dough is too sticky.

**Step 3: Let the Dough Rise**
1. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

**Step 4: Shape the Pretzels**
1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 20 inches in length.
3. Shape each rope into a pretzel by forming a U-shape, then crossing the ends over each other and pressing them down onto the bottom of the U.

**Step 5: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath**
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baking soda and stir until dissolved.
2. Carefully lower each pretzel into the boiling water bath and let it cook for about 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

**Step 6: Bake and Enjoy**
1. Sprinkle the pretzels with coarse salt while they are still wet from the baking soda bath.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Brush the hot pretzels with melted butter and serve warm.

#### Conclusion

These Rosemary Bliss Soft Pretzels are a delightful blend of savory flavors and pillowy texture, making them the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, these homemade pretzels are bound to be a hit with family and friends.

### Hashtags

#softpretzels #homemadetreats #rosemaryflavor #bakingbliss #snacktime #savorydelights #comfortfood #bakingathome #foodiefavorites #easyrecipes