Description
These homemade pretzel bites are soft, chewy, and perfect for snacking or parties. Easy to make, they can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently to combine and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the flour and salt to the bowl. Gradually mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning it to coat the surface with oil. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface.
- Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1 inch thick. Cut each rope into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 inch long, yielding about 32 pretzel bites.
- Place the cut pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda, being cautious of the bubbling.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer. Using a slotted spoon, gently lower a few pretzel bites into the baking soda bath at a time. Allow them to simmer for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through.
- After 30 seconds, remove the pretzel bites from the bath and place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all pretzel bites have been boiled.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Once preheated, brush the tops of the pretzel bites with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt generously over the top of each pretzel bite.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pretzel bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- While still warm, brush the tops with melted butter for extra flavor.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as mustard, cheese sauce, or a sweet cinnamon sugar dip.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature is correct for activating the yeast.
- Adjust the amount of coarse sea salt based on your preference.
- These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes