Description
These Soft Pretzel Bites are a classic snack perfect for sharing. Made from a simple yeast dough, boiled briefly in a baking soda bath, and baked to golden perfection, they boast a chewy interior and a crispy, salted exterior. Ideal for dipping in mustard, cheese sauce, or your favorite condiment, these pretzel bites are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
Boiling Bath
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
Topping
- 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Coarse salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated. Then add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Boil Water and Baking Soda: In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a rolling boil. This alkaline bath gives the pretzels their distinctive chewy crust and color.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope approximately 12-15 inches long, and cut each rope into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the Pretzel Bites: Carefully drop 10-15 pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water for about 30 seconds. This brief boil helps develop the pretzel texture. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Add Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each pretzel bite generously with the beaten egg yolk wash to promote a beautiful golden-brown color when baked. Sprinkle coarse salt over the top for flavor and texture.
- Bake the Pretzel Bites: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are puffed up and have developed a golden-brown crust.
- Serve: Let the pretzel bites cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as mustard, cheese dip, or marinara sauce.
Notes
- Ensure the water is at the correct temperature (110°F) to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Do not skip the baking soda bath; it is critical for achieving the authentic pretzel crust and flavor.
- Use parchment paper on baking sheets to avoid sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle different seasonings like garlic salt or cinnamon sugar instead of coarse salt.
- These pretzel bites can be frozen before boiling or after baking for future snacks. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
