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Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites – Easy Party Appetizer Recipe
Chloe Richardson

Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites

These homemade soft pretzel bites offer the perfect balance of a chewy, mahogany crust and a pillowy-soft interior. Perfect for game day or holiday gatherings, these bites utilize a traditional baking soda bath to achieve that signature flavor and golden-brown finish. Served with zesty mustard or warm cheese sauce, they are an easy and crowd-pleasing appetizer that outshines any store-bought version.
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Prep Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 27 minutes
Servings: 40 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups warm milk (110-115°F)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup baking soda (for the bath)
  • Coarse pretzel salt for sprinkling

Method
 

  1. Whisk warm milk and brown sugar in a bowl and stir in yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine flour, melted butter, and salt in a stand mixer. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead for 3-5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Transfer dough to a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  5. Divide dough into sections and roll into 1-inch diameter ropes. Cut ropes into 1-inch pieces.
  6. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and stir in the baking soda.
  7. Drop pretzel bites into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon to the prepared pans.
  8. Sprinkle with coarse pretzel salt and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

Ensure the milk temperature is between 110-115°F to ensure yeast activity without damage. You can freeze the shaped bites before the boiling step for up to one month.