Mild Soft Yeast Pretzels for the New Year

Introduction

Many families enjoy baking traditional treats together to celebrate the turn of the year. These soft New Year's pretzels are gently sweetened with applesauce, making them incredibly easy for little teeth to chew. Kneading and shaping the dough together also helps develop fine motor skills and turns baking into a wonderful family activity.

Ingredients

• 250 g spelt flour (type 630 or all-purpose flour, preferably organic)
• 1/2 packet of dry yeast (about 3 to 4 g)
• 100 ml lukewarm milk (cow's milk or oat drink)
• 50 g unsweetened applesauce
• 30 g soft butter
• 1 tiny pinch of salt
• A little milk for brushing

Preparation

1. Mix the flour, dry yeast, and a tiny pinch of salt thoroughly in a bowl.
2. Add the lukewarm milk, applesauce, and soft butter to the dry mixture.
3. Knead everything for about five to seven minutes until a smooth, pliable dough forms.
4. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for about 45 minutes until it has visibly doubled in size.
5. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit, conventional) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into four to six equal pieces and roll them into long ropes.
7. Shape the ropes into small pretzels, place them on the baking sheet, and brush them lightly with milk.
8. Bake the pretzels for about 12 to 15 minutes until they are golden brown.
9. Let the baked goods cool completely and always check the internal temperature before offering them to your child.

Variations & Tips

• The applesauce can easily be replaced with pear puree or mashed banana for a different flavor profile.
• For older family members, you can dust the finished pretzels with powdered sugar or serve them with jam.
• Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the pretzels stay fresh and soft for about two days.
• They are perfect for freezing: Simply store them in freezer bags and briefly reheat them when needed.

Allergy & Safety Information

This recipe contains gluten (spelt flour) and dairy (butter, milk). Always introduce new foods one at a time and in small amounts to easily monitor for any potential reactions. While honey is allowed after the first birthday, it is intentionally left out of this recipe to keep the overall sugar content low. Ensure your child is sitting upright and is supervised during all meals. If you have any uncertainties regarding food introduction or allergies, please consult your pediatrician.

Nutritional Information

Spelt flour provides valuable dietary fiber that supports healthy digestion. The applesauce adds natural sweetness and essential vitamins without the need for refined sugar. The milk and butter supply calcium and healthy fats, which play an important role in growth at this stage.