Soft pretzel bites are warm, fluffy, and simply delicious! Perfect for snacking, they have a nice golden-brown crust and a soft inside that you just can’t resist.
They’re great on game day or movie night. Trust me, once you start munching on these little delights, it’s hard to stop! I always pair them with a tasty cheese dip—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active dry yeast: This gives the pretzel bites their soft and chewy texture. If you’re looking to substitute, you can use instant yeast instead. Just use the same amount for a quicker rise!
All-purpose flour: This is essential for the structure of the dough. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat flour works well, but it may change the texture slightly. Bread flour can give an even chewier bite!
Kosher salt: It adds flavor to the dough. If you’re in a pinch, table salt works, but use less since it’s saltier. About half the amount should be good!
Baking soda: This is a key for the boiling step, giving pretzels their distinctive flavor. There’s no good substitute, but it’s an important part of the process, so try not to skip it!
How Can I Make Sure My Pretzel Bites Are Soft and Chewy?
Creating the perfect pretzel bite comes down to a couple of key techniques. The boiling in baking soda water is crucial for developing that unique pretzel flavor and chewy texture. Here’s how to nail it:
- Boil the water with baking soda just before you drop in the pretzel bites. This ensures they hit the water at the right temperature.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot. Boil them in small batches to prevent them from sticking together.
- Keep an eye on the boiling time—30 seconds per batch is perfect. It’s just enough to set their crust without overcooking.
Following these steps will lead to soft, fluffy pretzel bites every time. Happy baking!
How to Make Soft Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 4 cups water (for boiling)
- 1/4 cup baking soda (for boiling)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt, for topping
- Optional: cheese sauce or mustard for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus 1 hour for the dough to rise, and 12-15 minutes for baking. Overall, expect to spend around 1 hour and 35 minutes to enjoy your freshly made pretzel bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for it to become foamy, which means the yeast is doing its job!
2. Make the Dough:
Once the yeast is foamy, add the all-purpose flour and kosher salt to the bowl. Knead the dough either by hand or with a mixer using a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. The dough should be slightly sticky but easy to handle.
3. Let It Rise:
Transfer the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Preheat and Prepare:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
5. Boil the Bites:
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. This step is what gives pretzels their unique flavor and texture!
6. Shape the Dough:
After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 12-15 inches long, and then cut into 1 to 1.5 inch pieces to form the pretzel bites.
7. Drop and Boil:
Using a slotted spoon, drop the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water in batches. Boil each batch for about 30 seconds, then carefully remove them and place on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Add Toppings:
Brush each pretzel bite with melted butter and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. This will give them a delicious, savory flavor!
9. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the pretzel bites for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed.
10. Final Touch:
When the pretzel bites are baked, remove them from the oven and brush them again with melted butter for added flavor and a shiny appearance.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pretzel bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like cheese sauce or mustard. Enjoy your delicious homemade soft pretzel bites!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Absolutely! You can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in equal amounts. There’s no need to let it foam; just mix it directly into the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe.
What If I Don’t Have Baking Soda?
If you don’t have baking soda, it’s best to try and get some, as it’s a key ingredient for that classic pretzel flavor and texture. While you can skip the boiling step entirely, the pretzels won’t have the same authentic taste and chewiness. You could lightly brush them with an egg wash and sprinkle with salt instead for a different style.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Leftover pretzel bites can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm them up in the oven or microwave!
Can I Add Flavors or Toppings to the Dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in seasonings like garlic powder, herbs, or cheese into the dough for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to overdo it; keeping a balanced dough will ensure they rise well.
