Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade pretzel bites are irresistibly soft, chewy, and golden-brown on the outside. The best part? You get to enjoy them fresh from the oven, paired with a creamy, velvety cheese dip that’s sure to satisfy any craving. The steps are straightforward, and the results are perfect every time. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them by yourself, these pretzel bites are guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Bites:

1 cup (226 grams) warm water (100°F to 110°F)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 (1/4-ounce) packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
3 cups (362 grams) all-purpose flour, divided, plus more for the work surface
1 teaspoon fine salt
3 tablespoons (1 1/2 ounces) unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus more for greasing
1/2 cup baking soda
1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons pretzel salt or flaky sea salt

For the Cheese Dip:

1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup milk
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce, more to taste
1 pinch salt, more to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Pretzel Bites:

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir and let stand for about 10 minutes, until foamy.
Mix the Dough:
Add 2 cups (240 grams) of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture and mix until smooth.
Knead the Dough:
Add the remaining 1 cup (122 grams) of flour, fine salt, and melted butter. Switch to the dough hook attachment of your stand mixer and knead until the dough is soft and slightly tacky, about 7 minutes. Alternatively, knead by hand for about 10 minutes.
First Rise:
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven. Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease them.
Boil Water:
Fill a large pot (or Dutch oven) halfway with water and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Shape the Dough:
Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a log about 10 to 12 inches long, then slice each log into 1-inch pieces. Cover the dough pieces with a damp kitchen towel to prevent drying.
Prepare Baking Soda Bath:
Slowly add baking soda to the boiling water, reducing the heat to medium. Be cautious, as the water will foam up.
Boil the Dough Pieces:
Drop 9 to 10 pieces of dough into the boiling water and swirl them around for 15 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
Arrange on Baking Sheets:
Continue boiling the remaining dough pieces in batches, spacing them about 1 1/2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
Add Salt and Bake:
While the dough is still damp, sprinkle pretzel salt or flaky sea salt over the bites. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until deep golden brown.

Make the Cheese Dip:

Melt Butter:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
Add Flour and Spices:
Stir in the all-purpose flour, dry mustard, and black pepper. Cook, whisking constantly, for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
Add Milk:
Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Incorporate Cheese:
Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
Season:
Stir in hot sauce and a pinch of salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Serve:
Serve the cheese dip immediately alongside the warm pretzel bites.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 24 pretzel bites
Prep time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (including rise time)
Cook time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites: Brush the warm pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese for an extra savory twist.
Cinnamon Sugar Soft Pretzel Bites: After baking, toss the pretzel bites in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet version of the classic snack.
Buffalo Chicken Pretzel Bites: Stuff the dough with cooked chicken and buffalo sauce before baking for a spicy, hearty variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place pretzel bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them chewy.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.

How do I store leftover pretzel bites?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze pretzel bites?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese for the dip?

Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.

How do I reheat pretzel bites?

Reheat pretzel bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy.

Conclusion

Homemade soft pretzel bites paired with a creamy cheese dip make for a delightful snack or appetizer. These bites are soft, chewy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a movie night, or simply satisfying a snack craving, these pretzel bites will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Easy Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

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Soft pretzel bites are a delightful snack with a golden-brown exterior and a soft, chewy interior, paired with a warm, creamy cheese dip. Perfect for gatherings, movie nights, or just a tasty treat anytime.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour (including rise time)
Cook Time: 12 to 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Makes about 24 pretzel bites
Category: Snack, Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Make the Pretzel Bites:
1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add 2 cups of flour and mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the remaining flour, salt, and melted butter. Knead the dough for about 7 minutes with a dough hook or by hand for 10 minutes.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until doubled.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease them.
6. Boil water in a large pot, then add baking soda carefully.
7. Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 10-12 inch log and cut into 1-inch pieces.
8. Drop dough pieces into the boiling water for 15 seconds, then transfer to the baking sheets. Sprinkle with pretzel salt.
9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until golden brown.
Make the Cheese Dip:
1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in flour, mustard, and pepper, cooking for 2 minutes.
3. Whisk in milk and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Add hot sauce and salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately with the warm pretzel bites.