Homemade pretzels

Form each piece into a ball.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Pinch the seams together at the base of each ball.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Slowly roll each ball into a rope about 24 inches long.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Make a “U” out of each rope.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Twist the ends over, then pinch to connect the ends to form the pretzel.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Dip the pretzels into the wash.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Place pretzels on a baking sheet and garnish as desired.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)

Bake pretzels until puffed and golden brown, about 10 minutes, rotating halfway.  (Gary Friedman / Los Angeles Times)