Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe : Warm, Chewy, and Perfect for Snacking
There’s something irresistible about warm, soft pretzel bites, especially when they’re fresh out of the oven. This homemade soft pretzel bites recipe is the perfect snack for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or just craving something salty and chewy. The best part? Making these pretzel bites is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Soft pretzels have long been a favorite snack, and these bite-sized versions make them even more fun and shareable. These pretzel bites are perfectly soft on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior, making them the ideal comfort food. You can enjoy them plain or dip them in your favorite sauces like mustard, cheese, or even a sweet cinnamon sugar mix for a twist.
Making pretzel bites at home allows you to control the flavor and texture, so you can customize them to your liking. The dough comes together quickly with just flour, yeast, butter, and a pinch of salt. After forming the dough into small pieces, a quick dip in baking soda water creates that signature pretzel texture.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the dough ingredients and kneading the dough.
- Pot: To boil the pretzel bites in a baking soda water bath, which gives them their signature texture and flavor.
- Baking Sheet: For placing the pretzel bites after boiling and before baking. You can line it with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- Slotted Spoon: To carefully lower the pretzel bites into the boiling water and remove them once they’ve had time to cook.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough into ropes before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
- Pastry Brush: For brushing the pretzel bites with an egg wash before baking, which helps them achieve that golden, shiny finish.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients like water, yeast, and salt.
- Cheese Grater (optional): If you’re adding cheese to your dough or sprinkling cheese on top of your pretzel bites, a grater will help achieve a fine texture.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 ¼ teaspoons
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 8 cups water for boiling
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 egg beaten (for brushing)
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour, and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into small sections. Roll each section into a long rope (about 12 inches) and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water to a boil. Add the baking soda to the boiling water. Drop the pretzel bites into the water, a few at a time, and boil for about 30 seconds per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake and Serve: Brush the pretzel bites with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
To make these soft pretzel bites even more delicious, try brushing them with garlic butter right after baking for an added savory touch. You can also sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese or everything bagel seasoning before baking for extra flavor. For a sweet twist, toss them in cinnamon sugar after baking, or serve with a rich cheese dip or mustard for dipping. These small adjustments will take the flavor to the next level!