Finally, a bread recipe that really works!

Ever make a bread recipe and it says to knead it and you can't get the dough off your fingers? So then you add 3 more cups of flour? That has happened to us so many times that I can't even count them all. Well, finally, I found a recipe that was just right! To celebrate this momentous occasion, I am posting it here for everyone to enjoy. And another bonus is that you can make these delicious pretzels in less than an hour—virtually no rising time at all! (Courtesy of the Sugarcreek, Ohio Amish community.)

Soft pretzels
4 c. warm water, divided
2 T. yeast
4 T. brown sugar
1/4 c. oil
6.5 c. flour
4 t. baking soda
cooking spray

1. Dissolve the yeast in 2 cups of warm water. Grease a baking sheet; set aside.
2. Beat sugar, oil, and yeast mixture with several cups of flour. Knead in remaining flour; let rise for 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, mix together baking soda and remaining 2 cups of water in a shallow bowl.
   
3. Cut dough off with pizza cutter. Roll each piece 18" long and shape as a pretzel.
4. Dip into soda water and place on greased baking sheet. Sprinkle with pretzel salt. Let rise a few minutes.
5. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

Makes approximately 24 pretzels.