90-MINUTE SOFT PRETZELS

3 1/2 cups unsifted flour (about)

2 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 pkg active dry yeast

1 cup warm water

1 tablespoon margarine

1 egg yolk, beaten

1 tablespoon water

coarse salt

Mix 1 cup flour, sugar, salt and undissolved yeast. Heat 1 cup of water to 120-130 F. Gradually add to dry ingredients and beat 2 min at medium speed of mixer. Add 1/2 cup flour. Beat at high speed 2 min. Stir in enough additional flour to make a soft dough. On floured board knead 5 min. Set in greased bowl; turn to grease top. Cover; let rise in warm draft-free place 40 min.

Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a 20 inch rope. Shape into pretzels. Place on greased baking sheets. Cover. Let rest 5 min.

Mix egg yolk and 1 Tbsp water; brush on pretzels. Sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake at 375 F 15 min, or ;until done. Cool on racks.