Never leave a child unattended in the kitchen. Limit the child to tasks that are safe and age-appropriate. Most kids 8 and up can make this independently.

Homemade Soft Pretzel Sticks

Fresh from the oven, this chewy pretzel rods are a great snack for you and your friends!

Ingredients for 32 pretzel rods:

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast

1½ cups warm water (110° to 115°)

1 tablespoon sugar

2 tablespoons butter, melted

1½ teaspoons salt

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups whole wheat flour

8 cups water

1/3 cup baking soda

1 large egg yolk

1 tablespoon cold water

Optional: Coarse salt and mustard to serve

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the sugar, butter, salt and 2 cups flour. Beat until smooth. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky).

2. Turn dough onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.

3. In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a boil. Punch dough down; divide into 32 portions. Roll each into a 5-in. log. Add to boiling water, a few at a time, for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels.

4. Place on greased baking sheets. Lightly beat egg yolk and cold water; brush over pretzels. If desired, sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake 425° until golden brown, 9-11 minutes. Remove from pans to wire racks. Serve warm with cheese sauce, if desired.