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Easy Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites

A close-up of several shiny, golden brown pretzel bites piled on a white plate, sprinkled with coarse salt.
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Make soft, chewy pretzel bites at home. This simple recipe uses a baking soda bath for authentic texture, perfect for game day or parties.

Ingredients

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  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/2 cup baking soda
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Coarse pretzel salt, for topping

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add the melted butter, 2 teaspoons of salt, and 3 1/2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes, adding small amounts of the remaining flour if the dough is too sticky. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Prepare the bath: In a wide, shallow pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully stir in the 1/2 cup of baking soda. The water will foam up. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
  7. Shape the bites: Punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope about 1 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
  8. Boil: Working in batches, carefully drop the dough pieces into the simmering baking soda bath for 20 to 30 seconds per batch. Do not overcrowd the pot.
  9. Bake: Use a slotted spoon to remove the boiled dough pieces and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle generously with coarse pretzel salt.
  10. Finish baking: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through, until the bites are deep golden brown.
  11. Serve: Remove from the oven. Brush immediately with melted butter for extra flavor. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a dipping sauce, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon honey for a quick honey mustard.
  • To make cheese sauce, melt 1 cup cheddar cheese with 1/4 cup milk and a pinch of salt over low heat until smooth.
  • If you want a copycat flavor similar to mall pretzels, brush the baked bites with a mixture of 2 tablespoons melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract before salting.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://devourdish.com/easy-homemade-soft-pretzel-bites-recipe/