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Easy Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe Perfect for Chewy Golden Crust Snacks

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These easy soft pretzel bites feature a chewy interior with a crisp, golden crust, perfect for quick homemade snacks that everyone loves. Made with simple pantry staples and a baking soda bath for authentic texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 10 cups (2.4 liters) water for boiling
  • 2/3 cup (150g) baking soda for boiling bath
  • 4 tbsp (56g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
  • Optional: garlic powder or cinnamon sugar for topping variations

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and stir gently. Let sit 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add flour and salt to yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then knead by hand for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic (or knead with stand mixer dough hook for 5-6 minutes).
  3. First rise: Lightly oil a bowl, place dough inside, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a baking stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
  5. Shape pretzel bites: Punch down dough, roll into a 1-inch thick rope, cut into 1-inch pieces. Optionally twist into pretzel shapes.
  6. Prepare baking soda bath: Bring 10 cups water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil. Boil pretzel bites in batches for 20-30 seconds each, then remove with slotted spoon onto parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Brush pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
  8. Bake on preheated stone or baking sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
  9. Cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not skip the baking soda bath to achieve the classic chewy crust. Use warm water at about 110°F to activate yeast properly. Knead dough until smooth and elastic. Avoid overcrowding baking sheet for even baking. Brushing with melted butter locks in moisture and adds flavor. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend; for vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.

Nutrition

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