Recipe: Pop's Personalized Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dip (using frozen bread dough)

POP'S PERSONALIZED PRETZELS

1 pound loaf frozen bread dough
4 cups warm water
1 1/2 tablespoons baking soda
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
Coarse kosher salt
2 tablespoons melted butter or margarine (optional, for brushing tops)
FOR THE HONEY MUSTARD DIP:
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1 1/2 tablespoons honey
(or use French's Honey Mustard)

Thaw the dough according to directions, but do not let it rise. The dough will be easier to roll if it is at or near room temperature.

Heat oven to 450 degrees F. Lightly spray 1 or 2 baking sheet(s) with non-stick spray and set aside.

Using a sharp knife, divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into an 18-inch rope on a dry unfloured surface. If the dough is too elastic and difficult to shape, roll it as best you can, set it aside for 10 minutes, then try again.

Shape the dough into letters, like D-A-D or P-O-P, etc. Pinch the seams together tightly.

In a large bowl, mix together the 4 cups of warm water and the baking soda. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water.

Carefully dip the dough letters into the baking soda/water mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush them gently with the egg mixture and sprinkle with the salt.

Bake in a preheated 450 degree F oven for 9-11 minutes or until dark brown. Brush the pretzels with melted butter, if desired.

TO MAKE THE HONEY MUSTARD DIP:
Combine the mustard and honey or use French's Honey Mustard. Keep sauce refrigerated until needed.

Serve pretzels with the Honey Mustard Dip.

Makes about 8 letters
Source: Family Fun magazine