Description
These homemade pretzel bites are soft, chewy, and perfect for snacking or parties. Easy to make, they can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently to combine and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add the flour and salt to the bowl. Gradually mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Transfer back to a floured surface and divide into 8 equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1 inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Carefully add the baking soda (it will bubble up).
- Reduce heat to a simmer. Using a slotted spoon, drop a few pretzel bites into the water bath at a time. Boil for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place back on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all bites are boiled.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Brush the tops of the pretzel bites with the beaten egg for shine.
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt generously over the tops.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with melted butter while still warm for added flavor.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like mustard, cheese sauce, or a sweet cinnamon sugar dip.
Notes
- Ensure the water temperature is correct for activating the yeast.
- You can customize the toppings by adding spices or herbs to the dough or sprinkling them on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes