Get ready for a delightful treat with these Soft Pretzel Bites! Perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer, these little bites are soft, chewy, and simply irresistible. Let’s dive into how to make them!
Tips for Success
This part’s so satisfying: kneading the dough until it’s elastic makes all the difference! Don’t rush the rising time; it’s key to achieving that perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pretzel bites warm with your favorite dips like mustard or cheese sauce for a fun twist!
Ingredients
- For the pretzel dough:
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- For the baking soda bath:
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- For the egg wash:
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- For topping:
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Instructions
- Make the dough:
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Step 1- Combine Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook, combine all of the dough ingredients. Mix on low speed until combined.
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Step 2- Knead the Dough: Increase speed to medium and knead for 7 to 10 minutes until the dough is elastic and smooth and doesn't stick to the sides of the bowl or your hands, adding a little more flour if needed.
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Step 3- Let Rise: Place in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let rise until about doubled in size, about 1 hour.
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Step 4- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Shape the pretzels:
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Step 5- Divide and Roll: Remove the dough to a clean work surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece against the counter or between your palms into about a 10-inch long log. Keep the remaining pieces covered. Avoid adding flour to the work surface.
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Step 6- Cut Pieces: Using a bench cutter, cut 1 1/2-inch pieces from each log. Place on the two greased parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Prepare the baking soda bath:
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Step 7- Boil Soda Bath: Bring the water to a boil. Gradually add the baking soda to the boiling water, taking caution as it will bubble up more.
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Step 8- Boil Pretzel Bites: Working in batches, boil the pretzel bites in the baking soda solution, starting with the ones you shaped first, for no more than thirty seconds, before gently removing with a slotted spoon back to the greased and lined baking sheets, spacing them out at least half an inch apart.
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Step 9- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush all boiled pretzel bites with egg wash then sprinkle with salt.
- Bake the pretzels:
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Step 10- Bake: Bake both trays at 400°F for about 12 to 15 minutes, alternating the trays halfway through the baking time for even baking, until golden brown to your preference.
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Step 11- Cool Down: Let cool for 5 minutes before peeling away from the parchment paper.
Nutrition
- Calories: 150, Fat: 2g, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 4g
Cooking techniques
Kneading the dough is essential for developing gluten, which gives pretzels their signature chewiness. Make sure your water is at the right temperature—too hot can kill the yeast!
Variations or substitutions
Try adding different toppings like garlic powder or everything bagel seasoning for a fun twist! You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
Storage tips
Store any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Just reheat in the oven to enjoy!
Notes
These pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be reheated for later snacking!
