Pretzel Making!
snack attack
Pretzel Making
Time Frame: 1 hour + Free Play
Activity: P.L.A.Y.
Area of Learning: Chemistry + Literacy + Life Skills
Photo by David Nuescheler
“ Learn to make pretzel “hugs”! Their shape is like a big hug around a heart. What other shapes can you make out of them?”
Engage your child in making pretzels for the family! Measure, mix, roll and bake together. Take the time between proofing/dough rising to choose some sensory play in the kitchen.
Process
In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Add the sugar and salt and mix.
Add 3 cups of flour and combine. (Add 1/2 to 1 cup more of flour as needed. )
Knead for 5-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Shape into pretzel twists or shapes as desired.
Place on lined greased baking sheets.
Brush with an egg; sprinkle with course salt.
Bake at 425 degrees for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack.
Materials
Pretzel Recipe and Ingredients
Cookie sheets
Strong hands and elbow grease!
Pretzel Ingredients:
1 pkg/2.5 tsp dry active yeast
1.5 cups warm water (bath temp)
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp. Salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 egg, beaten
course salt (for sprinkling)
child role
Help prepare measuring cups, measuring spoons and spatula
Assist in mixing the dough together.
Practice using your strong arms and body to knead the dough. It takes a lot of practice and work!
Help make some pretzel hugs.
Can you think of other shapes you can make? Can you spell your name?
Parent role
Encourage your child to help recognize and identify kitchen utensils
Ask questions such as: “ Which tool would I use to mix something? Which would I use to scoop something with?
Demonstrate how to knead dough
Talk about oven safety and create a clear boundary of where they should stand/sit when the oven door is open
Encourage kitchen tools and container exploration while waiting for dough to rise/bake.
