Snowflake Pretzels

On a lightly floured surface, divide loaf into 8 equal pieces. Divide each piece into 4 smaller pieces. To make 1 snowflake, you will need these 4 small pieces of dough. Roll each of these 4 pieces of dough into a separate rope, each being 4 inches long. Repeat with remaining pieces of dough. To assemble the snowflakes; on a lightly greased sheet pan place one of the strips of dough on pan. Place second strip of dough over first strip to form an “X”. Make a “*” when placing the 3rd strip of dough over 1st and 2nd strips. Flatten snowflake center with the palm of your hand. Take the forth rope of dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Attach each small piece of dough to each end of the long pieces of dough. Make sure that the snowflakes are placed 2-3 inches apart so that they have enough room to rise. Brush snowflakes with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar or salt. Let rise until double in size. Bake in a preheated 375° oven for 14-16 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve warm.