Viipuri - Finnish Christmas Pretzel

1. 1

   Heat milk with sugar, butter and salt until hot, stir to melt butter and allow to cool until slightly warm, but not hot.

2. 2

   Dissolve the yeast in tepid water, add a teaspoon of yeast and a pinch of sugar (if you wish). Set aside in warm place until warm and bubbly.

3. 3

   Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, cardamon and nutmeg in mixer bowl.

4. 4

   Combine the milk mixture with the yeast and add to the flour. Mix thoroughly.

5. 5

   Add the egg and enough of the remaining flour to make a soft dough.

6. 6

   Knead on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until smooth.

7. 7

   Turn into a greased bowl, cover and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.

8. 8

   Punch down the dough, turn it out onto a work surface and form into a 32 inch rope.

9. 9

   Shape the dough into a huge pretzel. (Form into a circle with two six inch ends curving into the center. Twist the ends together, then press and tuck under the top of the circle). Place on a greased baking sheet.

10. 10

    Cover and let rise until almost double, about 30 minutes. Brush with the egg glaze and bake in a preheated 350 deg F oven for about 30 minutes or until done. Cool on wire rack.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

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