Description
These Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and golden brown on the outside, making them the perfect snack for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings or dipping sauces, they are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a fun family activity.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Bites:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir until dissolved and let sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Prepare the Dough: Add salt, flour, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Punch the dough down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough into an 18-inch rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces to form bite-sized pretzel bites.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add baking soda to the boiling water and stir until dissolved. Working in batches, drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water and cook for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Pretzel Bites: Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the pretzel bites to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
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Variations:
- Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites: After baking, brush the pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
- Garlic Butter Pretzel Bites: Toss the pretzel bites in melted garlic butter after baking for a savory twist.
- Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel Bites: Add small cubes of cheese (like cheddar) inside the dough before shaping into bites for a cheesy surprise.
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Freezing: These pretzel bites freeze well! Allow them to cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
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Dipping Sauces: Pair with mustard, cheese sauce, chocolate sauce, or ranch dressing for a variety of delicious dipping options.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour: Boiling & Baking Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
