A warm, soft snack you can make in under an hour.
introduction
These Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites are warm, chewy, and easy to make. The dough is simple and the baking steps are clear. If you like quick baking projects, you may also enjoy an easy carrot cake recipe as another simple treat.
why make this recipe
You will make a snack that is soft inside and a little shiny outside. This recipe is fast, uses few tools, and works for kids and guests. You can make a big batch and eat them warm.
how to make Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites
Make the dough, let it rest, cut bites, give them a quick baking soda bath, then bake. Work in steps and keep the dough smooth. Use a timer so you do not over-proof or over-brown them.
Ingredients :
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for dough)
- 8 cups water and 1/3 cup baking soda (for boiling bath)
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash, optional)
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
Directions :
- In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Punch down dough. Divide into 2 pieces. Roll each into a long rope about 1 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a gentle boil in a wide pot.
- Drop pretzel bites into the boiling bath in batches for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
- Brush bites with egg wash if using. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Cool 5 minutes before serving.
how to serve Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites
Serve warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or honey. They make a good snack, party finger food, or side for soup and salad.
how to store Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites
Cool fully. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days. To keep them soft, reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes. You can freeze baked bites in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in the oven.
tips to make Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites
- Use warm water for the yeast, not hot.
- Do not over-knead; stop when dough is smooth and elastic.
- Pat bites dry after the baking soda bath to help egg wash stick.
- Space bites on the sheet so they brown evenly.
- If you want extra shine, brush with butter after baking.
variation (if any)
- Add garlic powder or cinnamon sugar after baking for different flavors.
- Make them stuffed by placing a small cheese cube in each bite before sealing.
- Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste (may need a bit more water).
FAQs
Q: Can I skip the baking soda bath?
A: You can skip it, but the bath gives the bites their classic color and texture. Without it they will still taste good but look paler.
Q: How do I know the yeast is active?
A: The yeast is active when the water mixture becomes foamy within 5–10 minutes.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead?
A: Yes. Make the dough, cover, and chill in the fridge up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Q: Can I bake frozen pretzel bites straight from the freezer?
A: Yes. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time and watch until golden.
Q: Are these vegan-friendly?
A: To make vegan, skip the egg wash and use plant butter instead of regular butter.
Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites are warm, chewy, and easy to make. Perfect as a snack or party finger food.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for dough)
- 8 cups water and 1/3 cup baking soda (for boiling bath)
- 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash, optional)
- Coarse salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes until doubled.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Punch down dough. Divide into 2 pieces. Roll each into a long rope about 1 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Bring 8 cups water and baking soda to a gentle boil in a wide pot.
- Drop pretzel bites into the boiling bath in batches for about 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the baking sheet.
- Brush bites with egg wash if using. Sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or honey. They also freeze well and can be reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 bites
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg