I first came across Mildred Benson’s pretzels while at a relief society activity just a few years ago. She had been talking up these pretzels for quite some time, and nearly every week in church she raved about them. Mildred claimed that she had spent her life perfecting the art of pretzel making, and that she had once served a pretzel to President Eisenhower himself. Now, I don’t know if I put much stock in that, but seeing as how her husband was in the military, I suppose it’s entirely possible. She kept telling us that she was going to cook a batch for the relief society one day.
None of the other sisters took much interest in her promises, but I have a soft spot in my heart for a good pretzel. They always take me back to my Aunt Gloria’s kitchen, in the days when she would make them for me and my cousins. So, I didn’t complain about Mildred’s constant boasting. I just waited patiently for the day that she would bring them for us all to try.
Finally, one afternoon we were having a taste table over at the 6th ward, when in walked Mildred with a 5-gallon bucket on each arm. I think I smelled her coming before she ever came through that door. Each of those buckets was full to the brim of the most heavenly, golden pretzels I’ve ever laid my eyes upon. Those beautiful creations were each buttered and salted to perfection, and from the first bite, I knew I had to have her recipe. They were crisped just right on the outside, but the insides would melt even in the mouth of an Eskimo.
I begged and begged Mildred for the recipe that day, but she wouldn’t give it to me. She said that she would keep it a secret until she died. But she promised that I could come over whenever I wanted and she would share some with me. Over the years, I took her up on that promise quite a few times. Since her husband had passed away, I think she enjoyed having some company. That suited me fine, because I enjoyed the company and the pretzels. We talked about everything, from our kids, to the weather, to the latest scandals up on the hill. I grew to love that woman.
My dear friend Mildred passed away just last month. Shortly after the funeral, I was contacted by her son. He told me that in her last will and testament she desired that I have her pretzel recipe. Of course, I broke down in tears. Mildred had found a way to give me one final gift, and it’s one I’ll always remember her by. Now, I enjoy making these pretzels with my two grandsons, Jimmy and Carl. They always get such big smiles on their faces when we open the oven together. I only hope you can all have that same joy!
Without further ado, allow me to reveal the recipe behind MBP: Continue -->
The Truth Behind MBP
What is the secret behind Mildred Benson's Pretzels? I will tell you.
