VALENTINES CINNAMON SUGAR PRETZEL🥨💘

In a large bowl combine 1 cup warm water, 2 tsp yeast & 2 tbsp brown sugar, stir to combine & let stand for about 5 mins until foamy. Add strawberry puree, vanilla, melted butter, salt and flour. Stir until the mixture is combining and a dough is beginning to form. If using a stand mixer, beat with a dough hook and add more flour if sticking to sides of the bowl 1 tbsp at a time until a dough ball forms. If mixing by hand — transfer the shaggy dough mixture to a floured surface & knead until dough ball forms, adding more flour if needed and too sticky. Transfer dough ball an oiled large bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a dry, warm place for 1 hour. (I set in the oven turned OFF with the oven light on.) Divide dough into 4-8 pieces depending if you want large or mini pretzels. Roll dough out into a semi thin log and form an upside down “U” shape. Pinch the bottom of the U for the bottom of the heart, and bring the 2 loose ends together to form the top of the heart. Arrange on a lined baking sheet and let rise 30 more mins while you make your poaching water. Add about 1/4 cup or a handful of baking soda to a large pot of simmering water. Add each pretzel one at a time to the pot & poach for 1 min each side. Return to baking sheet and coat in an egg wash of 1 egg + 1 tbsp water. Bake at 450F for 12-17 minutes, until deep golden browned (like a pretzel color). Let cool until you can handle with your hands. Brush with melted butter & toss in a large bowl of granulated sugar and cinnamon. Enjoy!