Soft Flax Pretzels

INGREDIENTS

2 to 3 cups all purpose flour 2 tbsp. granulated sugar 1 tbsp. active dry yeast (1 package) 1 tsp. salt 1 cup water 1 tbsp. butter or margarine ¼ cup flaxseed 1 egg yolk 1 tbsp. water

DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, salt and yeast. In a saucepan, over medium
high heat, heat water and butter to 120 to 130 degrees. Add warm liquid to the yeast mixture; beat until well combined. Stir in flaxseed and enough flour to make a soft dough. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead, adding more flour as necessary until dough is smooth and no longer sticky, about 4 minutes. Place dough into a well greased bowl and cover loosely with greased plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until doubled. (45-60 minutes)

Line baking sheet with foil. Lightly grease and set aside. Punch dough down, knead about 5 times. Divide dough into 12 equal portions. Cover portions not being rolled. Roll each portion into a 16 inch rope; shape into a pretzel. Place on baking sheet, cover and let rise 5 minutes. Beat together egg yolk and water. Lightly brush on pretzels. Sprinkle pretzels lightly with coarse salt and flaxseed, if desired. Bake 15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with mustard or melted cream cheese for dipping.