Description

These homemade soft pretzel bites are warm, buttery, and chewy on the inside with a perfectly golden crust. They’re easy to make from scratch and great for parties, game days, or anytime snacking. Serve with your favorite dips like nacho cheese, mustard, or ranch!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Boiling Step:

8 cups water
1/2 cup baking soda

Topping:

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse salt or pretzel salt
Optional: melted butter for brushing after baking

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Instructions

In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Stir in flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a soft dough forms, then knead by hand or with a mixer for about 5–6 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
Punch down the dough and divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into a rope, about ½ inch thick, then cut into 1-inch pieces.
Working in batches, drop pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water for 20–30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheets.
Brush each bite with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Optional: Brush with melted butter right after baking for extra flavor.

Notes

For a sweeter twist, skip the salt and toss warm bites in cinnamon sugar after baking.
Dough can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day before shaping and baking.

Serve with cheese sauce, mustard, or honey butter.