Spooky Witch Finger Pretzels for Halloween

Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes, or until it starts to froth.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
3. Add the melted butter and the yeast mixture to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Witch Fingers:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
3. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 7-8 inches long, tapering one end (this will be the fingertip).
4. Slightly bend the rope in a few places to give it the look of a finger.
5. Press an almond into the tapered end to resemble a fingernail.

Boil the Pretzels:

1. In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
2. Carefully place each pretzel finger into the boiling water, 2 or 3 at a time, for about 30 seconds.
3. Remove them from the water using a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake:

1. Brush the pretzel fingers with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Once cooled, arrange them on a serving platter for your spooky gathering. They can be served with various dipping sauces, like the pumpkin pie hummus, mustard, or even a red "bloody" marinara for extra spookiness.