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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.

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

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

Notes

For a savory variation, brush warm pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese.

For a sweet version, coat pretzel bites in cinnamon-sugar after baking.

Store pretzel bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months.

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