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Easy Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 145 reviews

Soft pretzel bites are a deliciously salty, chewy, and golden snack perfect for parties, game days, or any craving. These bite-sized treats are easy to make at home with a simple dough, a unique baking soda bath for that classic pretzel texture, and a glossy egg wash finish. Enjoy them warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or honey for a sweet and savory experience.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough:

  • 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath:

  • 10 cups water
  • ⅔ cup baking soda

Topping:

  • 1 egg yolk, whisked with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
  • Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt

Optional Dipping Sauces:

  • Mustard
  • Cheese sauce
  • Your favorite dip

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface and let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy, ensuring the yeast is active.
  2. Make the Dough: Add melted butter, salt, and 3 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to come together, then gradually add the remaining flour in ½ cup increments until the dough is no longer sticky. Turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 7–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Let the Dough Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or cooking spray. Place the dough inside, turning to coat all sides. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: While the dough rises, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot. This bath will give the pretzel bites their signature crust and color.
  5. Shape the Pretzel Bites: After rising, punch down the dough to release air bubbles. Transfer to a floured surface and divide into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a 12–15 inch rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces to form the pretzel bites.
  6. Boil the Pretzel Bites: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Working in batches, drop the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda bath for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on prepared baking sheets, keeping bites from touching.
  7. Add the Topping: Brush each pretzel bite with the egg wash for a glossy finish. Sprinkle generously with coarse sea salt.
  8. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until deep golden brown, rotating the baking sheets halfway through for even baking.
  9. Serve and Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or your favorite dip. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for best texture.

Notes

  • Measure the water temperature carefully; it should be warm (about 110°F) to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Thorough kneading develops gluten for the ideal chewy texture.
  • Do not skip the baking soda bath—it’s essential for authentic pretzel flavor and crust.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 2 days; reheat in oven for best results.

Keywords: soft pretzel bites, homemade pretzels, snack recipe, party food, game day snacks, easy pretzels, baking soda bath, chewy pretzels

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