lets prepare the raisins: transfer the raisins into a large bowl. fill the bowl with brandy until the raisins are submerged. cover with cling film and let rest in fridge overnight. the next day, drain off excess liquid and set the raisin aside
1
lets make pretzel: in a bowl, mix in lukewarm milk, sugar and yeast. stir until sugar is dissolved. set aside for 5 minutes until the yeast mixture becomes foamy. in another large bowl, add in raisins, flour, salt and butter
2
once the yeast mixture becomes foamy, gradually add the yeast mixture into the flour mixture, while stirring with a spatula. once the mixture comes together, use your hands to knead into a dough. transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes. the dough is tacky and soft. but not sticky. if the dough is too dry, add in water, 1 tbsp at a time. if the dough is too sticky, add in flour, 1 tbsp at a time
3
form the dough into a ball, transfer to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp lint free kitchen towel. let rise for 1 hour
4
once the dough had risen, divide into 8 equal pieces. roll the dough into a long and equally thin log. you can form it into a traditional horse shoe shape. or roll the dough ball into a short and medium log. using a sharp knife to make a few slices on the top. lined a baking tray with parchment paper. place the shaped pretzel onto the baking tray
5
preheat oven to 230 degrees. prepare the water bath in a pan over medium heat. add baking soda into the water. whisk until the baking soda has dissolved. bring the water bath up to a slow simmer
6
gently drop the shaped pretzels into the simmering water bath. let the pretzel simmer for 30 seconds before flipping. simmer the other side for another 30 seconds. remove from heat and drain off any excess liquid. place the pretzel onto the baking tray with parchment paper dusted with cornmeal
7
before wacking into the oven, brush the pretzel with butter. bake for about 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown. as soon as they are outta oven, brush the pretzel again with butter and dust with salt. serve! voila! soft raisin pretzel!