Soft and Chewy Pretzel Bites

There is something magical about homemade pretzels. That golden, salty crust giving way to a soft, chewy inside feels like a little hug from your oven. Making pretzel bites at home is easier than you might think, and the best part is you get to dunk them in mustard, cheese, or whatever your heart desires. Today, I am walking you through a foolproof method to make these bite-sized delights, complete with tips to get them perfectly soft and golden every time. Whether it is for movie night, a party, or just a sweet snack for yourself, these pretzel bites will disappear fast.

Ingredients You Will Need:

For the Dough:

• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
  
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (110° to 115°)
  
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  
• 1/4 cup sugar
  
• 1 large egg, beaten
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
  
• 3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For Boiling:

• 12 cups water
  
• 1/4 cup baking soda

For Topping:

• Melted butter, for brushing
  
• Flaky salt, for sprinkling

Is This Recipe Hard?

When I first set out to make pretzel bites, I thought it was going to be one of those “Pinterest fail” situations. But honestly, it is surprisingly simple. The dough comes together quickly, and shaping the bites feels more like playing with Play-Doh than actual baking. The only part that might seem tricky is boiling the dough in baking soda water, but even that turns into a fun little science experiment. This is the kind of recipe that looks impressive but is secretly easy, and that is the best kind.

Instructions to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, stir the yeast into warm water with a wooden spoon. Add the sugar and oil, then let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly.

3. Make the dough: Stir in the beaten egg and salt. Add the flour, one cup at a time, until you have a shaggy dough.
4. Knead: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 3 to 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a towel and let it rest for 10 minutes to relax the gluten. Knead again for another 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Shape the pretzel bites: Divide the dough into six portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, like playing with clay as a kid. Cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces, keeping them similar in size so they cook evenly. Place on a floured baking sheet to prevent sticking.

6. Boil the bites: Bring 12 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Carefully add the baking soda since it will foam up. Drop the pretzel bites in, a few at a time, for 30 to 60 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart.

7. Top and bake: Brush each bite generously with melted butter and sprinkle with flaky salt. Bake on the middle rack at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Enjoy: Let cool slightly before diving in. Be warned, these bites vanish fast.

Notes, Tips, and Variations

• Keep your bites evenly sized so they bake uniformly.
• Do not skip the resting step since it makes the dough softer and easier to shape.
• Be careful when adding baking soda to boiling water since it foams vigorously.
• Cheesy pretzel bites: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan on top before baking.
• Sweet twist: Brush with butter and cinnamon sugar instead of salt.
• Garlic herb: Mix minced garlic and herbs into the melted butter before brushing on the bites.

More Recipes You Will Love

• Easy Soft Pretzels
• Easy Drop Biscuits
• Garlic Cheese Drop Biscuits

Making pretzel bites at home is easier than you think, and nothing beats the smell of freshly baked dough in your kitchen. They are perfect for snacking, sharing, or impressing guests at your next gathering. Once you make these, you will see why homemade always wins. Now grab that mustard, cheese dip, or chocolate sauce, and let the pretzel party begin!