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Soft and Chewy Pretzel Bites Recipe

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Delicious homemade pretzel bites with a soft, chewy texture and perfectly golden crust. These bite-sized treats are easy to make using simple ingredients and a baking soda water bath to achieve that classic pretzel flavor and texture. Perfect for snacking or serving with your favorite dips.

Ingredients

Dough Ingredients

  • 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled; plus more if needed)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 ¾ cups warm milk (or water; around 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

Boiling Solution

  • 9 cups water
  • ½ cup baking soda

Topping

  • 1 large egg (mixed with 1 tablespoon of water)
  • Coarse salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Make the Dough: In a stand mixer bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, warm milk, melted butter, and salt. Use a dough hook and mix on medium speed for 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  2. Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and place in a warm spot. Allow the dough to rise for 30-60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil. This alkaline bath gives the pretzels their signature chewy crust.
  4. Shape Pretzel Bites: Once the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ¾-inch thick rope, then cut each rope into 1-2 inch bite-sized pieces.
  5. Boil the Pretzel Bites: Using a slotted spoon, dip the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water for approximately 30 seconds. This step gelatinizes the exterior and helps develop the pretzel crust.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Remove the boiled bites and place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there is some space between each bite to allow for expansion.
  7. Apply Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each pretzel bite generously with the egg wash (egg mixed with water). Sprinkle coarse salt on top to enhance flavor and texture.
  8. Bake: Bake the pretzel bites in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until they turn a deep golden brown color.
  9. Serve: Remove the pretzel bites from the oven and let them cool briefly. Serve warm with honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for a perfect snack.

Notes

  • For softer bites, brush them with melted butter immediately after baking.
  • You can substitute warm water for milk if desired; milk adds a richer flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of coarse salt to your preference or try different toppings such as sesame seeds or garlic salt.
  • Ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pretzel bites for the best texture.
  • Leftover pretzel bites can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to restore crispness.

Find it online: https://cookedbygrace.com/soft-and-chewy-pretzel-bites-recipe/