Description
Soft pretzel bites are bite-sized delights with a chewy interior and golden-brown crust, perfect for game days, gatherings, or as a comforting snack. Ready in an hour, these are easy to make, customizable, and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups warm milk (110-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt, plus extra for sprinkling
- 1 (0.25-ounce) package active dry yeast
- 4½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, plus extra for brushing
- 9 cups water
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 large egg (whisked with 1 tablespoon water)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Mix warm milk, brown sugar, and 2 tsp salt. Sprinkle yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Mix and Knead: Add flour and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 4 minutes until smooth.
- Let Dough Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 20–30 minutes until doubled.
- Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare two parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Baking Soda Bath: Boil 9 cups of water with ½ cup baking soda in a stockpot.
- Shape Pretzel Bites: Roll dough into ¾-inch thick ropes, cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Boil Pretzel Bites: Boil bites in the baking soda solution for 30 seconds, then place on baking sheets.
- Egg Wash and Salt: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter before serving if desired.
Notes
- For a sweeter variation, sprinkle bites with cinnamon sugar after brushing with butter.
- Avoid microwaving for reheating to retain texture; use the oven instead.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
