Fun Recipe Mom

Homemade Pretzel
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 1/8 teaspoons salt
1 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
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2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
2 tablespoons baking soda
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2 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast, brown sugar and salt in 1 1/2 cups warm water. Stir in flour, and knead dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, and turn to coat the surface. Cover, and let rise for one hour.
Combine 2 cups warm water and baking soda in an 8 inch square pan. Line 6 baking sheets with parchment paper.
After dough has risen, cut into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a 3 foot rope, pencil thin or thinner. Twist into a pretzel shape, and dip into the baking soda solution. Place onto parchment covered baking sheets, and let rise 15 to 20 minutes.
Preheat an oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with coarse salt, garlic salt or cinnamon sugar.

Chocolate Crispy Thumbprint Cookies
1 package chocolate cake mix
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
1 egg
3 cups rice crispy cereal
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Raspberry Jam, candy of choice or filling
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Beat cake mix, oil, water and egg. Mix well. Add rice crispy's and walnuts. Take a heaping teaspoon and place in palm and roll. Place on cookie sheet and press center with thumb. Fill center with your favorite jam or jelly or candy. Bake for 10-12 minutes. YUM!