Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites

Homemade soft pretzel bites are golden, chewy morsels of baked perfection. With a tender interior and slightly crisp, salted exterior, these bite-sized pretzels are ideal for game days, parties, or simply as a comforting snack. They’re easy to make at home and pair wonderfully with dips like mustard or cheese sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pretzel bites are incredibly versatile and crowd-pleasing. You’ll love how they:

• Are soft and chewy with a golden crust
• Can be made with simple pantry staples
• Require no fancy equipment
• Are perfect for both sweet and savory variations
• Come together in just about an hour
• Freeze well for future snacks
• Are fun to make with kids
• Make a perfect appetizer or snack
• Are great for dipping
• Taste just like soft pretzels from a bakery

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Warm water (around 100°F / 38°C)
• Instant or active dry yeast
• Brown sugar or granulated sugar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, melted
• All-purpose flour
• Coarse salt (for topping)

For the baking soda bath:

• Baking soda
• Water

Directions

1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add salt, melted butter, and most of the flour. Stir until a dough forms. Add remaining flour as needed until the dough is soft and not sticky.
3. Knead dough on a floured surface for 3–5 minutes. Place it in a greased bowl and let it rest for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Divide dough into 6 portions. Roll each into a 20-inch rope, then cut into 1.5–2 inch bites.
6. In a pot, boil water and slowly add baking soda. Drop pretzel bites into the boiling bath for 10–15 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.
7. Place on baking sheets and sprinkle with coarse salt while still wet.
8. Bake for about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite dip.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheese-stuffed: Wrap small cubes of cheddar inside each dough bite before boiling.
• Garlic parmesan: Brush baked bites with garlic butter and sprinkle with grated parmesan.
• Cinnamon sugar: After baking, brush with butter and toss in a cinnamon-sugar mix.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the dough for a kick.
• Vegan: Use plant-based butter and skip the egg wash.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?

It should be smooth and elastic. Press a finger into it — it should bounce back slowly.

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, bread flour will give a slightly chewier texture, which works well for pretzels.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It just takes a little more effort.

Do I have to boil the pretzel bites in baking soda water?

Yes, this step is essential for that signature pretzel crust and flavor.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

Why did my pretzel bites come out dense?

Over-kneading or not allowing the dough to rest properly can result in dense bites.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend, but texture may vary slightly.

How can I make them sweeter?

Add a bit more sugar to the dough or coat the finished bites in cinnamon sugar.

What dipping sauces go best with these?

Cheese sauce, mustard, honey mustard, or even chocolate for sweet versions.

Can I make larger soft pretzels with this dough?

Absolutely, shape the dough into traditional pretzels and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Homemade soft pretzel bites are a simple yet satisfying treat you can make from scratch with minimal ingredients. Whether you enjoy them salty or sweet, these golden bites are sure to please every palate. Prepare a batch today and savor the warm, bakery-style goodness right from your kitchen.

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