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Ever craved the warm, comforting taste of soft pretzels but want them bite-sized and utterly irresistible? These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are the answer! Golden brown, perfectly salted, and brushed with melted butter, they’re perfect for game day, movie night, or any occasion that calls for a delightful snack. Inspired by classic Bavarian pretzels, this recipe brings that traditional flavor right to your kitchen. Let’s dive in and make some pretzel magic!

Why You’ll Love This Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these little bites of happiness! Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

Easy to Make: Simple steps that anyone can follow, even novice bakers.
Buttery Goodness: Each bite is infused with rich, melted butter for an unforgettable taste.
Perfectly Soft: The secret is in the boiling water bath, giving them that signature soft pretzel texture.
Crowd-Pleasing: Guaranteed to be a hit at parties, gatherings, or family movie nights.
Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or dipping sauces for a personalized touch.
Homemade Delight: Nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own soft pretzels from scratch.

These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are way better than anything you’ll find at the store, offering a warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen and a taste that will have everyone reaching for more.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you’ll need to create these heavenly Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites. Don’t worry; the ingredients are simple and easy to find!

For the Dough:

1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C): Use a thermometer to ensure the water is the right temperature for activating the yeast.
1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar: Provides food for the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness.
2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast (1 packet): The key to a light and airy dough.
4 1/2 cups (540g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting: Provides structure to the dough.
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor to the dough.
1 1/2 teaspoons (9g) salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

For the Boiling Water Bath:

10 cups (2.4L) water: Used for the boiling bath to give the pretzel bites their signature texture.
1/2 cup (96g) baking soda: Creates the alkaline environment needed for the pretzel’s distinct flavor and color.

For the Butter Topping:

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds a rich, buttery flavor and a beautiful golden sheen.
Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling: Enhances the flavor and provides a delightful crunch.

Selection tip: For the best results, use high-quality butter and fresh yeast. You can often find coarse sea salt in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.

Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools makes all the difference! Here’s what you’ll need to make these Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites like a pro:

- Stand mixer with dough hook: Essential for kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for a successful recipe.
- Large mixing bowl: For the dough to rise comfortably.
- Plastic wrap: To cover the dough while it rises, keeping it moist and warm.
- Baking sheets: To bake the pretzel bites evenly.
- Parchment paper: Prevents the pretzel bites from sticking to the baking sheets.
- Large pot: For boiling the pretzel bites. A heavy-bottomed pot retains heat best.
- Slotted spoon: To carefully remove the pretzel bites from the boiling water.

Buttery soft pretzel bites, golden brown and glistening.

Recipe Details

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect when making these Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: About 48 pretzel bites
Difficulty: Medium

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings or halved for a smaller batch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the most delicious Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites you’ve ever tasted!

Make the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Add flour, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix with the dough hook attachment on low speed until a dough forms. Increase speed to medium and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. A warm environment helps the dough rise properly, creating a light and airy texture.

Shape the Pretzel Bites

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Punch down the dough and divide it in half. Roll each half into a long rope, about 24 inches long. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.

Boil the Pretzel Bites

In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and baking soda to a boil. Gently drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water, about 10-12 at a time. Boil for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets. The baking soda bath is crucial for that authentic pretzel flavor and texture.

Add Topping and Bake

Brush the pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Serve

Let the pretzel bites cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Here are some expert tips to ensure your Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are a total success:

Yeast Activation: Make sure your water isn’t too hot or too cold when activating the yeast. Aim for 105-115°F (40-46°C) for optimal results.
Kneading Time: Don’t skimp on the kneading time. The dough should be smooth and elastic for the best texture.
Boiling Bath: The baking soda bath is essential for that signature pretzel flavor and color. Don’t skip it!
Even Baking: Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Salt Placement: Sprinkle the coarse sea salt immediately after brushing with butter so it adheres well.

Variations & Substitutions

Want to mix things up? Here are a few delicious variations and substitutions for your Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites:

Cinnamon Sugar: Skip the sea salt and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after brushing with butter for a sweet twist.
Garlic Parmesan: Add garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese for a savory version.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning for added flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free option.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites

These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are fantastic on their own, but here are some serving suggestions and pairings to elevate your snacking experience:

Cheese Dip: Pair with a warm cheese dip for a classic combination.
Mustard: Serve with a variety of mustards, such as Dijon, honey mustard, or spicy brown mustard.
Ranch Dressing: A cool ranch dressing provides a delicious contrast to the warm, salty pretzels.
Beer Cheese Soup: Enjoy alongside a comforting bowl of beer cheese soup for a cozy meal.

Perfect for game day, movie night, or any casual gathering!

Health Benefits

While these Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are a treat, they do offer some nutritional benefits:

Carbohydrates: Provide energy for your body.
Protein: Contributes to muscle repair and growth.
Fiber: Helps with digestion and promotes satiety.

Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites to maintain their deliciousness:

Storage: Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but they may lose some of their crispness.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common questions about making Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites:

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can! Use the same amount of instant yeast and skip the proofing step. Just add it directly to the flour mixture.

How do I prevent the pretzel bites from sticking to the baking sheet?

Make sure to line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No problem! You can knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.

Can I use different types of flour?

While all-purpose flour works best, you can experiment with bread flour for a chewier texture. Avoid using self-rising flour, as it will affect the rise of the dough.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: Approximately 4 pretzel bites
Calories: 250
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 400mg
Total Carbohydrate: 40g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Total Sugars: 5g
Protein: 5g

Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful snack recipes? Check out these other gems!

Easy Garlic Rosemary Focaccia Muffins – A savory and aromatic treat perfect for any occasion.
Cheesy Garlic Butter Bombs – Indulge in these soft, cheesy, and garlicky delights.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips – A healthy and delicious alternative to traditional potato chips.

Conclusion

These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Fast, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser, they’re a homemade snack that’s hard to resist. Whip them up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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The Best Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites