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Pretzel Bites Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

These soft and chewy Pretzel Bites are a delightful homemade snack perfect for sharing. Made from a simple yeast dough, boiled briefly in baking soda water for that classic pretzel texture, and baked to golden perfection, they pair wonderfully with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled; plus more if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¾ cups warm milk (or water; around 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Baking Soda Bath

  • 9 cups water
  • ½ cup baking soda

Topping

  • 1 large egg (mixed with 1 tablespoon of water)
  • Coarse salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Make the dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, warm milk, melted butter, and salt. Mix with a dough hook on medium speed for about 4-5 minutes until a smooth, elastic dough forms. If too sticky, gradually add more flour.
  2. Let dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 30 to 60 minutes until it doubles in size, ensuring a light and airy texture.
  3. Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large pot, bring the water and baking soda to a rolling boil.
  4. Form pretzel bites: Divide the risen dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ¾-inch thick rope, then cut each rope into 1-2 inch bite-sized pieces.
  5. Boil pretzel bites: Carefully drop the pretzel bites in batches into the boiling baking soda water. Boil for exactly 30 seconds to give them their signature chewy crust, then remove using a slotted spoon and transfer to the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each bite to allow expansion.
  6. Apply egg wash and bake: Brush each pretzel bite generously with the egg wash mixture to promote a shiny, golden crust. Sprinkle with coarse salt for classic flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are deep golden brown.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with honey mustard or your preferred dipping sauce for a delicious snack experience.

Notes

  • The baking soda bath is essential for the characteristic pretzel crust and flavor.
  • Make sure the milk or water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Use coarse or pretzel salt for topping for the best texture and taste.
  • These pretzel bites freeze well; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
  • For a softer bite, brush with melted butter after baking.