Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

Introduction

There’s something undeniably delightful about the aroma of freshly baked pretzels wafting through the kitchen. Whenever I make these buttery soft pretzel bites, my family gathers around with eager anticipation. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether it’s movie night, a game day gathering, or simply an afternoon treat, these pretzel bites never fail to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a bit of time and a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups warm milk (110 to 115°F)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)
• 1 (0.25-ounce) package active dry yeast
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more if needed)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
• 9 cups water
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1 large egg (whisked with 1 tablespoon water)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk, brown sugar, and salt.
2. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it activates and becomes frothy.

Knead the Dough

3. Add the flour and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until combined.
4. Knead by hand for about 4 minutes until the dough is smooth. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer on medium speed for the same duration. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.

Let the Dough Rise

5. Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly-oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 20-30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Preheat the Oven

6. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Prepare the Boiling Solution

7. In a large stockpot, bring 9 cups of water and 1/2 cup of baking soda to a boil over medium-high heat.

Shape the Pretzel Bites

8. Turn the risen dough onto a lightly-oiled surface and divide it into 12 pieces.
9. Roll each piece into a 3/4-inch wide rope, then cut it into 1-inch long bites.

Boil the Pretzel Bites

10. Using a spatula or wire strainer, gently place the bites into the boiling water, about a dozen at a time, for 30 seconds each.
11. Carefully transfer the boiled bites to the parchment-lined baking sheets.

Add Egg Wash and Salt

12. Brush the tops of the pretzel bites with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Bake

13. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until golden brown.
14. Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack.

Optional: Brush with Extra Butter

15. For an extra buttery flavor, brush the warm pretzel bites with melted butter before serving.

Serve Warm

16. Enjoy these delicious bites fresh out of the oven!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 calories
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: About 1 hour
• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes rising time)
• Cook Time: 12-14 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm Out of the Oven: Serve these pretzel bites while they’re still warm for the best experience.
• Dipping Sauces:
• Mustard (spicy or sweet)
• Cheese sauce
• Honey mustard
• Marinara sauce
• Snack Boards: Include pretzel bites on a charcuterie board for a fun appetizer at parties.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it’s active for the best rise.
2. Knead Well: Proper kneading develops gluten, which is essential for the pretzel’s chewy texture.
3. Boiling Solution: The baking soda bath gives pretzels their characteristic flavor and dark brown color. Don’t skip this step!
4. Customize Flavors: Add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or cheese powder to the dough for extra flavor.
5. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Recipe Variations

• Cheese Pretzel Bites: Incorporate shredded cheese into the dough or sprinkle cheese on top before baking.
• Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites: After baking, brush with melted butter and toss in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.
• Herb-Infused Pretzel Bites: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the dough for a savory twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these pretzel bites at parties, movie nights, or game days.
• Pair them with a refreshing beverage like lemonade or a craft beer for adults.
• Use them as a fun addition to a kids’ snack platter.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the baked pretzel bites to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen pretzel bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?

• Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

1. How do I know if my yeast is active?

• The yeast should froth and bubble after being mixed with warm milk and sugar. If it doesn’t, it may be expired.

1. Can I make pretzel bites without baking soda?

• Baking soda is crucial for achieving the classic pretzel flavor and texture. It’s best not to omit it.

1. How can I make these pretzel bites gluten-free?

• Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

1. What if my dough is too dry?

• Add a little warm water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches the desired consistency.

1. Can I use a bread machine?

• Yes, you can use a bread machine for the kneading process. Follow your machine’s instructions for making dough.

1. What dips pair well with pretzel bites?

• Mustard, cheese sauce, ranch dressing, or marinara are great options.

1. Can I make these in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

1. Why did my pretzel bites turn out tough?

• This can happen if the dough is over-kneaded or if it’s baked for too long. Keep an eye on them while baking!

1. How do I keep pretzel bites soft?
   • Store them in an airtight container and consume them within a couple of days for the best texture.

Conclusion

These buttery soft pretzel bites are not just a snack; they’re an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. With a simple recipe that yields delicious results, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. Whether enjoyed plain or paired with your favorite dips, these pretzel bites are bound to become a household favorite. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a homemade treat that everyone will love!

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