Cinnamon-Raisin Soft Pretzels

These are fantastic! I've been makin' them for years now and they are great for breakfast or as a snack! :)

Cinnamon-Raisin Soft Pretzels

1 package active dry yeast                              2 tablespoons baking soda

1 1/2 cups warm water                                    2 cups hot water

2 tablespoons brown sugar                             3 tablespoons butter, melted

1 teaspoon salt                                                3/4 cup sugar

2 cups cake flour                                              1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

3/4 cup raisins                                                  2 to 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Stir in brown sugar and salt. Add cake flour; stir well. Stir in enough all-purpose flour to form a soft dough. Stir in raisins.

Turn on floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in warm place until dough has risen slightly, about 30 minutes.

Punch dough down; divide into 14 balls. Roll each ball into a 15 inch rope.

In a bowl, dissolve baking soda in hot water. Dip each rope in baking soda mixture; drain on paper towels. Form into pretzel shapes and place on greased baking sheets. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

While they are still slightly warm, combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Brush pretzels with butter, then dip in cinnamon-sugar. Serve warm. Makes 14 pretzels.