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Quick Soft Pretzel Bites

A close-up of chewy soft pretzel bites on a white plate, with one bite broken open to show its airy interior.

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Enjoy these soft, chewy pretzel bites with a baking soda boil for authentic color and texture. Perfect for game day or parties, they come together in about an hour and are great with mustard or beer cheese dip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 10 cups water (for boiling)
  • ½ cup baking soda
  • 2 tablespoons pretzel salt or coarse kosher salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in the flour and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 20-30 minutes, or until slightly puffed.
  5. While the dough rises, prepare the baking soda bath: In a large pot, combine 10 cups of water and baking soda. Bring to a boil.
  6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about ½ inch thick. Cut each rope into 1-inch pieces.
  7. Working in batches, carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water for 30-60 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Brush the pretzel bites with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with pretzel salt.
  9. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
  10. Serve warm with your favorite dips.

Notes

  • For freezing: Let pretzel bites cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 1 month.
  • To reheat: Place frozen pretzel bites on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
  • You can shape the dough into ropes and cut them before the boiling step.
  • For a richer flavor, brush with melted butter after baking.

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