Whole Wheat Soft Pretzels

This is a favorite snack at our house, and surprisingly simple. I have tried several other soft pretzel recipes and they were such a production! The last thing I need is more stress...so this simple recipe was just the thing. I don't remember where I got it (something that I am notorious for) but, just want to say that I did not create the actual recipe. :) I use my stand mixer, so in my kitchen, the process is tweaked a bit so I'm not even kneading by hand. I also like to make the ropes half the suggested size to make smaller pretzels. Just take 5 minutes off the baking time for that option. The original recipe...

1 package active dry yeast
1 cup warm water 2 1/2 to 3 cups whole wheat flour
1 tsp salt
3 TBSP canola oil
1 TBSP honey
coarse sea salt

In a bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add 2 cups of the flour, oil and honey. Stir until smooth. Mix in small amounts of the remaining flour until a dough is formed that is not too wet to handle.

Place dough on a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes.

Place dough in a greased bowl and let stand in a warm place for about 1 hour.

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Punch down dough.

Divide dough into twelve equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 18 inches long.

Twist each rope into the shape of your choice and place on a greased cookie sheet. Sprinkle with coarse salt.

Bake at 400 degrees for about 15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Yield: 12 pretzels.