Golden Almond Pretzels

Welcome to Lovewithrecipes.com, where we bring you a delightful and scrumptious recipe to kick off the New Year with a burst of flavor and warmth – our mouthwatering New Year’s Pretzels! 🎉✨ These German-inspired pretzels are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a perfect way to celebrate the beginning of a fantastic year. Let’s dive into the kitchen and create these golden-brown wonders that will leave everyone craving for more.

🕒 Times Table:

📝 Recipe: New Year’s Pretzels

🍞 Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 7 cups flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 package confectioners’ sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

📋 Instructions:

1. Heat and Mix:

   • Heat milk and butter until very warm (120-130 degrees F.).
   • In a mixing bowl, combine yeast, salt, sugar, and 1 cup of flour.
   • Slowly beat the dry mixture into the warm milk.
   • Beat the mixture for 2 minutes.
   • Add eggs and 1 more cup of flour. Beat for an additional 2 minutes.

2. Form Dough:

   • Gradually add enough flour to form a soft dough.
   • Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, approximately 5 minutes.
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl.
   • Let the dough rise in a warm place until it doubles in bulk, approximately 1 hour.

3. Double Rise:

   • Punch the dough down and let it rise again until doubled (approximately 1 more hour).

4. Shape Pretzels:

   • Divide the dough in half.
   • To shape the pretzels, roll each portion into a rope about 30 inches long and 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
   • Cross the ends, leaving a large loop in the center.
   • Flip the loop back onto the crossed ends to form a pretzel.
   • Repeat the process with the remaining dough.

5. Final Rise and Bake:

   • Place the pretzels on greased baking sheets.
   • Allow them to rise for an additional 15 minutes.
   • Bake at 375 degrees F for 25 to 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

6. Cool and Ice:

   • Once baked, let the pretzels cool on wire racks.
   • In a bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar, water, and vanilla extract to form a thin icing.
   • Spread the icing generously on the pretzels and sprinkle with chopped almonds for an extra touch of decadence.

Now, take a moment to revel in the intoxicating aroma wafting through your kitchen as these New Year’s Pretzels come to life. The golden crust, soft interior, and sweet icing make these pretzels a perfect indulgence for any occasion. Share them with friends and family, and let the joyous celebration of the New Year continue with each delightful bite. Happy baking! 🥨🌟