Craving a snack that’s quick to whip up, surprisingly wholesome, and bursting with flavor? Look no further than Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites! These aren’t your average, rock-hard, store-bought pretzels. Imagine sinking your teeth into warm, pillowy soft bites, coated in a generous sheen of butter. They’re perfect for game night, a cozy evening in, or even a fun baking project with the kids. As a mom, I’m always looking for snacks that are both delicious and relatively guilt-free, and these Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites tick all the boxes!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, my Grandma Elsie always had a batch of pretzels on hand, especially during the holidays. The smell of warm yeast and baking dough instantly transports me back to her cozy kitchen, filled with laughter and love. While her recipe remains a closely guarded family secret, these Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are a delicious tribute to her memory, bringing that same warmth and comfort to my own home. Plus, they’re so easy to make, even Grandma would approve!
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- For the Baking Soda Bath:
- 10 cups water
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- For Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Coarse sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: Add melted butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath: Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
- Shape the Bites: Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope. Cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the Bites: Carefully drop the Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites into the boiling baking soda bath, about 10-12 at a time. Boil for 30 seconds, remove with a slotted spoon, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Butter and Salt: Brush the pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt immediately after removing from the oven.
- Serve: Enjoy warm!
Expert Tips for Best Results
The key to light and airy pretzel bites lies in properly proofing the yeast! Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast. Also, don’t skip the baking soda bath – this is what gives the pretzels their signature chewy texture and rich color. When shaping the dough, try to keep the bites roughly the same size to ensure even baking. A little extra flour on your work surface will prevent sticking and make the dough easier to handle. Finally, for an extra burst of flavor, experiment with different toppings like cinnamon sugar, garlic powder, or even Everything Bagel seasoning. Feel free to get creative, and have fun with it!
Serving Suggestions
Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. For a classic pairing, serve them with a side of warm cheese sauce, spicy mustard, or honey mustard. They’re also delicious dipped in marinara sauce or ranch dressing. For a sweet treat, try them with Nutella or melted chocolate. Add them to a charcuterie board for a fun and unexpected twist, or pack them in a lunch bag for a midday snack. They are great as an appetizers at social gathering or a side at potlucks. These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are also fantastic alongside a bowl of soup or chili, adding a satisfying crunch and salty contrast. No matter how you serve them, they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Conclusion
These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are more than just a snack; they’re a quick and easy way to create a moment of joy and connection, whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them all by yourself. From their simple ingredients to their comforting flavor, they’re the perfect reminder that sometimes the best things in life are the simplest. So, go ahead and try this recipe, experiment with your favorite toppings, and create your own delicious memories. These bites encapsulate the essence of homemade goodness, with a burst of flavor. They are ideal for any occasion, from a simple family night to a larger gathering.
Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make the Dough: Add melted butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Let it Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Baking Soda Bath: Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
- Shape the Bites: Punch down the dough and divide it into equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope. Cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the Bites: Carefully drop the Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites into the boiling baking soda bath, about 10-12 at a time. Boil for 30 seconds, remove with a slotted spoon, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Butter and Salt: Brush the pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt immediately after removing from the oven.
- Serve: Enjoy warm!
Notes
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