Soft Pretzel Bites – Get ready to delight. In the ultimate snack. With our Soft Pretzel Bites! This Soft Pretzel Bites recipe. Is easy to follow. And yields warm, chewy, and perfectly salted pretzel bites. That are sure to be a hit. At any gathering.
The first time I made these soft pretzel bites. My kitchen was filled. With the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread. My husband. Who is a pretzel enthusiast. Couldn’t wait to try them. Our child. Usually a picky eater. Couldn’t resist either. And joined in. Watching them enjoy these warm, golden bites. Straight from the oven. Made all the effort worthwhile. Now, these pretzel bites are a family favorite. Especially on movie nights!
What makes this Soft Pretzel Bites truly stands out?
This Soft Pretzel Bites recipe stands out. Because it’s straightforward. And beginner-friendly. Yet delivers professional bakery-quality results. The combination of a soft, chewy interior. With a perfectly salted exterior. Makes these pretzel bites irresistible. Plus, they can be customized. With different toppings and dips. Making them versatile. For any occasion.
What You Need To Make This Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe?
Warm Milk: This is the secret to a tender dough. Make sure it’s not too hot. Or it will kill the yeast. Think of it as the cozy blanket. For the yeast to wake up in.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness. That complements the salty exterior. It’s like a little hug. For your taste buds.
Coarse Sea Salt: Essential for that classic pretzel flavor. A sprinkle on top. Gives that perfect salty crunch.
Active Dry Yeast: This is what makes your pretzels rise. And get fluffy. It’s the magic behind the scenes.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your pretzel dough. If your dough is too sticky. Don’t be afraid to add a bit more.
Melted Butter: Adds richness. And a hint of buttery flavor to the dough. Brush some extra on top. For an irresistible shine.
Baking Soda: This creates an alkaline bath for the pretzels. Giving them their chewy texture. And characteristic taste.
Egg: The egg wash makes your pretzels beautifully golden And glossy. It’s like a little makeup for your bites.
Steps To Make Soft Pretzel Bites:
Step 1: Mix the Dough: Start by whisking the warm milk, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until it gets foamy.
Step 2: Knead the Dough: Add the flour and melted butter to the bowl. Mix everything together until combined. If you’re using a stand mixer, let it knead for about 4 minutes until the dough is smooth. If not, just use your hands and give it a good knead for the same amount of time.
Step 3: Let It Rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 20-30 minutes, until it doubles in size.
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Step 4: Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 5: Boil the Water Solution: In a large pot, bring the water and baking soda to a boil. This is what will give your pretzels that classic chewy texture.
Step 6: Shape the Pretzel Bites: Roll out the dough on a lightly oiled surface and divide it into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into a 3/4-inch wide rope and cut into 1-inch bites.
Step 7: Boil the Bites: Carefully drop the bites into the boiling water, about a dozen at a time, for 30 seconds. Scoop them out with a spatula and place them on the parchment-lined baking sheets.
Step 8: Add Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each bite with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Step 9: Bake: Pop them in the oven and bake until they’re a lovely golden brown, about 12-14 minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack.
Step 10: Optional Butter Brush: For extra buttery goodness, brush them with melted butter just before serving.
Tip:
For the perfect soft pretzel bites. Pay attention to the baking soda bath. This step is crucial. As it gives the pretzels. Their iconic chewy texture. And deep brown color. Boil each batch of pretzel bites for about 30 seconds. Ensuring they are fully submerged. This might seem like an extra step. But it’s what makes the difference. Between just okay pretzels. And amazing, bakery-style pretzel bites. Also, don’t skip the egg wash. It adds that beautiful golden finish. Finally, enjoy them. Fresh out of the oven. For the best experience!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these pretzel bites ahead of time?
Yes. You can make the dough ahead of time. And refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature. Before proceeding with the recipe.
What if I don’t have coarse sea salt?
You can use kosher salt. Or even regular table salt in a pinch. Though coarse sea salt gives the best texture. And flavor.
Can I freeze the pretzel bites?
Absolutely! Let them cool completely. Then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Soft Pretzel Bites
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 c warm 110 to 115°F milk
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsps coarse sea salt* plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 0.25-oz package active dry yeast
- 4 1/2 c all-purpose flour plus more if needed
- 2 tbsps melted butter plus extra for brushing
- 9 c water
- 1/2 c baking soda
- 1 large egg whisked with 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Mix the Dough: Combine warm milk, brown sugar, and salt. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it activate for 5 minutes.
- Knead the Dough: Add flour and melted butter. Knead by hand or with a mixer until smooth. Let it rise in an oiled bowl for 20-30 minutes.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat oven to 450°F and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Boil Water Solution: Bring water and baking soda to a boil in a large pot.
- Form Pretzel Bites: Roll dough into ropes, cut into 1-inch pieces, and boil in batches for 30 seconds each.
- Add Egg Wash: Brush bites with egg wash and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Bake: Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown. Serve warm.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
