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Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe Easy Homemade Cozy Chewy Crust Snack

soft pretzel bites - featured image

These soft pretzel bites feature a perfectly chewy crust and a soft, pillowy interior, made with simple pantry staples and a quick baking soda bath for authentic flavor and texture. They are a cozy, easy snack or appetizer perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ยฝ cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ยผ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup (240 ml) warm water (about 110ยฐF or 43ยฐC)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus coarse salt for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cups (960 ml) water for baking soda bath
  • 4 tablespoons baking soda
  • 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
  • Optional toppings: garlic powder, sesame seeds, cinnamon sugar

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a mixer, knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.
  4. First rise: Place dough in a bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450ยฐF (230ยฐC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Prepare baking soda bath: Bring water and baking soda to a gentle boil in a large pot.
  7. Shape pretzel bites: Punch down dough, roll into a ยฝ inch thick rope, and cut into 1-inch pieces.
  8. Boil bites: Drop pieces into boiling baking soda water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
  9. Apply egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt or desired toppings.
  10. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and slightly crispy.
  11. Cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the baking soda bath to prevent bites from sticking together. Use fresh yeast for best rise. Preheat oven fully before baking. Apply egg wash evenly and do not skip coarse salt for flavor. Let pretzel bites cool a few minutes to set crust. Variations include garlic herb, cinnamon sugar, gluten-free, and cheese-stuffed versions. Air frying at 400ยฐF for 8 minutes is an alternative cooking method.

Nutrition

Keywords: soft pretzel bites, homemade pretzels, easy snack, chewy pretzels, baking soda bath, appetizer, cozy snack