Name: Soft Pretzel Bites
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups warm water (375ml); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 4.5 cups all-purpose flour (562.5g); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 10 cups water (2.5l); 0.67 cups baking soda (80g); 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water (whisked together for egg wash); Coarse salt (for sprinkling); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 shallot (finely minced); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 jalapeños (seeded and minced); 2 chipotle chiles (minced (canned in adobo sauce)); 12 ounces canned evaporated milk ((1½ cups)); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 4 ounces cream cheese (cut into cubes and softened); 2 teaspoons yellow mustard; 12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (shredded (about 3 cups))

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There’s something about the smell of freshly baked bread that instantly brings back memories of cozy family gatherings. One of my favorite treats from those gatherings is undoubtedly Soft Pretzel Bites. As a kid, I remember eagerly waiting by the oven, watching the dough rise and imagining how delicious they would be once they were golden brown and warm. Now, it’s a joy to recreate this classic snack at home, especially when paired with a spicy cheese dipping sauce that adds an extra kick. Every bite is a perfect balance of soft, chewy pretzel paired with that creamy, zesty dip. Whether it’s game day, a movie night, or just a casual gathering, these little bites are sure to be a hit!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Slow Cooker, Baking Sheet

What We Adore About This Soft Pretzel Bites

They’re Irresistibly Chewy

What’s not to love about the chewy texture of Soft Pretzel Bites? The unique baking process creates that signature crust while ensuring the inside is perfectly soft. Each bite is a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Sharing

Hosting a party or movie night? These pretzel bites are the ideal finger food for sharing. You can lay out a big platter and watch as your friends munch away, dipping into that fantastic cheese sauce. It’s all about bringing people together around good food.

Customizable Flavors

While the classic flavors are always amazing, there’s a world of possibilities with Soft Pretzel Bites. You can experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or everything bagel seasoning, to give them a fun twist. The cheese dip can also be mixed up with different types of cheese or spices!

Fun Activity to Make

Making pretzels can be a fun family activity. Kids love getting their hands in the dough, shaping it, and watching as it transforms into a beautiful snack. It’s a great way to create lasting memories in the kitchen.

Great for Any Occasion

These bites are not just for parties. They make a fantastic snack for game day, a quick lunch, or a fun addition to a dinner spread. You can even make them for holiday gatherings!

Pairs Well with Various Dips

While I love the spicy cheese sauce, Soft Pretzel Bites are versatile enough to pair with various dips. Think mustard, ranch, or even a sweet cinnamon dip for a dessert version. The options are limitless!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Soft Pretzel Bites

The ingredients for Soft Pretzel Bites are simple yet effective, coming together to create a delicious snack. The magic happens with basic pantry staples that work harmoniously to produce that beloved pretzel flavor and texture.

1½ cups warm water (375ml) – The base for activating the yeast, giving the dough its necessary moisture.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar – This helps feed the yeast for a good rise and adds a hint of sweetness.
2 teaspoons kosher salt – Essential for flavoring the dough.
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet) – The key ingredient for giving the pretzels their structure and fluffiness.
4½ cups all-purpose flour (562.5g) – The backbone of the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness to the dough.
10 cups water (2.5l) – Used for boiling the pretzels before baking to create that chewy texture.
⅔ cups baking soda (80g) – This is added to the boiling water to enhance the pretzel’s color and flavor.
1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water, whisked together – This egg wash gives the pretzels their beautiful golden color.
Coarse salt – For sprinkling on top, adding that classic pretzel taste.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – For brushing over the baked pretzels for extra gloss and flavor.
1 shallot, finely minced – Adds a lovely onion flavor to the cheese sauce.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Brings aromatic depth to the dipping sauce.
2 jalapeños, seeded and minced – Adds a spicy kick to the cheese sauce.
2 chipotle chiles, minced (canned in adobo sauce) – For a smoky heat that enhances the cheese dip.
12 ounces canned evaporated milk (1½ cups) – This makes the cheese sauce creamy and rich.
1 tablespoon cornstarch – Helps to thicken the cheese sauce for a perfect dip.
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes and softened – Adds creaminess and richness to the cheese sauce.
2 teaspoons yellow mustard – Provides a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
12 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 3 cups) – The star of the cheese sauce, making it gooey and delicious.

How to Cook Soft Pretzel Bites

Cooking Soft Pretzel Bites is a rewarding experience, and it’s easier than you might think! Follow these steps for perfectly made pretzel bites.

Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups warm water, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Sprinkle 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes. You should see bubbles forming, indicating that the yeast is activated.
Add the remaining ingredients: Once the yeast mixture is foamy, add in 4½ cups all-purpose flour and 4 tablespoons melted butter. Using a dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until combined, then increase the speed to medium and knead the dough until smooth, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Let the dough rise: Take the dough out of the mixing bowl and place it in a clean, oiled bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—this should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Preheat the oven: Toward the end of the rising time, preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and brush them with vegetable oil.
Prepare the boiling solution: In a large wide pot (a Dutch oven works perfectly), combine 10 cups of water with ⅔ cups baking soda and bring it to a rolling boil.
Shape the pretzel bites: Turn the dough out onto a lightly oiled surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 1-inch in diameter, then cut the rope into 1-inch pieces. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Boil the pretzels: Carefully place the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water, about half a baking sheet at a time. Boil for 30 seconds, using a spider strainer or slotted spoon to remove them. Place them back on the baking sheet and brush the tops with the egg wash.
Bake the pretzels: Sprinkle the tops with coarse salt and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are dark golden brown. Transfer them to a cooling rack and allow them to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Make the cheese dipping sauce: While the pretzels are baking, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 minced shallot, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 2 minced jalapeños, and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
Finish the sauce: Stir in 2 minced chipotle chiles and 12 ounces of canned evaporated milk. Whisk in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until fully incorporated. Lower the heat and add 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and 2 teaspoons of yellow mustard, stirring until melted. Gradually add 12 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted. Serve warm.

Things Worth Knowing

Boiling is Key: The baking soda and water boiling process is crucial. It gives pretzels their characteristic texture and flavor.
Watch the Time: Don’t boil the pretzels for too long; 30 seconds is perfect for getting that chewy consistency.
Storage Tip: Store leftover pretzels in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to a month.
Testing for Doneness: The pretzels should be a deep golden brown when done. This color indicates they are perfectly cooked through.
Keep Warm: If you’re serving these at a party, keep them warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

Tips and Tricks about Soft Pretzel Bites

Making Soft Pretzel Bites can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your pretzels come out perfect every time.

Storage: Keep any leftover pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For extended freshness, you can freeze them.
Freezing: To freeze, place the cooled pretzels in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be reheated straight from the freezer.
Serving Size: These pretzel bites make a great appetizer. Consider serving them alongside a variety of dips to cater to different tastes!
Experiment with Toppings: Aside from coarse salt, try sprinkling everything bagel seasoning or garlic powder to offer different flavor profiles.
Pair with Drinks: These bites go great with soft drinks or homemade lemonade for a refreshing complement.

Best Served With

The way you serve your Soft Pretzel Bites can elevate the experience. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy them!

As an Appetizer: Serve them warm as a fantastic appetizer at gatherings, paired with a selection of dips.
Game Day Treat: Perfect for game days, these bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser alongside your favorite snacks.
Family Movie Night: Enjoy them as a fun snack during family movie nights—everyone will love dipping them into cheese sauce!
With a Salad: Pair them with a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that balances out the carbs with some greens.
Seasonal Gatherings: Great for holidays and seasonal gatherings, these pretzel bites will charm your guests no matter the occasion.
Brunch Option: Serve them at brunch with a variety of dips and drinks for a fun twist on traditional brunch fare.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise, then shape it and boil just before you’re ready to bake. If you need to make them further in advance, consider baking them and then storing them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Leftover Soft Pretzel Bites should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just place the cooled pretzels on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from the freezer.

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for part or all of the all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will give the pretzels a slightly denser texture and a nuttier flavor. You might need to adjust the water slightly as whole wheat can absorb more moisture.

If you love a kick, you can add more jalapeños or even some cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. Adjust the spice level to your taste by starting with a little and adding more gradually until it reaches your desired heat level.

Conclusion

The magic of Soft Pretzel Bites is not just in their delicious taste, but also in the joy they bring to gatherings and cozy nights at home. Their chewy texture combined with the creamy cheese dip makes them irresistible. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that will surely delight your friends and family.