If you’ve ever dreamed about soft, chewy, utterly irresistible bites of pretzel heaven, you’ll fall head over heels for Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways). This crowd-pleasing snack brings both classic salted and cinnamon-sugar options to the party, all from one simple batch of dough. Whether you’re in the mood for savory or sweet, these warm, pillowy bites are destined to become your new go-to for game days, parties, or cozy movie nights at home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of pantry staples to whip up Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways), and every ingredient shines in its own special way. Together, they create the fluffy texture, distinct pretzel aroma, and signature golden crust that make this snack unforgettable.
- Warm Water: The perfect starting point for activating the yeast and giving your dough life and bounce.
- Active Dry Yeast: Brings that unmistakable rise and slight tang only homemade pretzels can offer.
- Granulated Sugar: Just a touch, to help feed the yeast and add a subtle hint of sweetness to the dough.
- All-Purpose Flour: The sturdy yet soft base that keeps the bites chewy on the inside and crisp on the outside.
- Salt: Brings depth to the dough and balances every flavor note, especially in the classic version.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and that melt-in-your-mouth factor we all love in pretzels.
- Baking Soda: The secret to that classic pretzel-y bite and color—used in the boiling step for an authentic twist.
- Egg Wash: Ensures a shiny, golden finish that looks and tastes bakery-perfect.
- Classic Topping – Coarse Salt: Delivers the addictive salty crunch you expect from traditional pretzels.
- Sweet Topping – Cinnamon Sugar: A sparkling finish to transform plain bites into a cinnamon-rolled treat.
- Sweet Topping – Extra Melted Butter: Helps all that cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness to every sweet bite.
How to Make Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways)
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start your Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) adventure by combining warm water, yeast, and a spoonful of sugar in a large mixing bowl. This little science experiment is where the magic happens: let it sit for about five minutes, giving the yeast time to get all bubbly and foamy. If you don’t see much action, try using a fresh packet of yeast.
Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough
Now, stir in your flour, salt, and melted butter. If you have a stand mixer, a dough hook is a dream here, but a sturdy wooden spoon works just as well. When everything comes together and looks shaggy, switch to clean hands and knead for around five minutes on a floured surface. The dough should feel soft, elastic, and slightly tacky.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for 45 to 60 minutes. Watch as it puffs up and doubles in size! This is what gives Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) their signature airiness and flavor.
Step 4: Shape the Pretzel Bites
Punch down the risen dough to release extra air, then divide it into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 20 inches long—it’s easier than it sounds, just go slowly. Slice each rope into 1-inch pieces for perfect, poppable bites that are a pleasure to dip and munch.
Step 5: Boil in Baking Soda Bath
Bring water and baking soda to a lively boil in a large pot. Drop in the pretzel bites, working in batches so they don’t stick together, and let them bubble for 30 seconds before scooping them out with a slotted spoon. This special bath is the secret to that distinctive pretzel crust and flavor.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake
Time to decide: classic or sweet? For the classic, brush the bites with egg wash and sprinkle with plenty of coarse salt. Leave the sweet ones plain for now. Bake at 425°F for 12 to 15 minutes, until the bites are puffed and perfectly golden. Your kitchen will smell absolutely incredible!
Step 7: Finish Sweet Bites
For the sweet option, brush the warm bites with more melted butter, then roll them in your cinnamon-sugar mix. This final flourish turns simple dough into melt-in-your-mouth treats you’ll find impossible to resist.
How to Serve Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways)
Garnishes
For the classic bites, a bit more coarse salt right out of the oven is always welcome. The sweet ones love a generous dusting of extra cinnamon sugar. For a finishing touch, serve with small bowls of creamy cheese dip, tangy mustard, or a sweet glaze for dunking fun.
Side Dishes
Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) are superstars all on their own, but they play especially well with snacks like sliced veggies, charcuterie boards, or even a pot of warm chili. For dessert platters, pair the sweet bites with fresh fruit, hot cider, or coffee for a memorable treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack pretzel bites into a big bowl for easy sharing, or arrange them around dip bowls on a party platter. For extra flair, skewer them on appetizer sticks, or fill mason jars with the sweet version for edible gifts at holidays and birthdays. However you serve them, Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) are guaranteed to be devoured first!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have a few bites left after the first round, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep soft and tasty for up to two days, though nothing beats the just-baked goodness.
Freezing
Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) can be frozen! Arrange baked and cooled pretzel bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll stay fresh and snack-ready in your freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, pop pretzel bites in a 350°F oven for about five minutes. This re-crisps the outside but keeps that fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. If reheating sweet bites, avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess—trust the oven for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast in an equal amount; just skip the activation step and mix everything together. The rise times will be nearly the same, so your Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) will still turn out beautifully.
What’s the secret to the pretzel flavor and color?
The baking soda bath before baking is essential! This step gives Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) their golden-brown crust and that signature pretzel tang you crave.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough the night before, cover tightly, and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping the pretzel bites for the fluffiest results.
How do I keep the pretzel bites soft?
Store them in an airtight container as soon as they cool. Reheating in the oven before serving brings back their pillowy texture, making Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) taste oven-fresh again.
How do I make a sweet dipping glaze?
Whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a bit of vanilla extract until smooth. Serve alongside the cinnamon-sugar bites for an extra touch of sweetness!
Final Thoughts
Once you try Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways), you’ll wonder how you ever settled for store-bought snacks! Whether you’re all about the savory or your heart beats for sweet, these pretzel bites bring everyone to the table. Grab a bowl, dip away, and share the pretzel joy!
Print
Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites (Two Ways) Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including rise time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites are a delightful snack that can be enjoyed two ways – classic with coarse salt or sweet with a cinnamon-sugar coating. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, these pretzel bites are easy to make and even easier to eat!
Ingredients
Classic Pretzel Bites:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 8 cups water (for boiling)
- 1 large egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- Coarse salt, for topping
Sweet Pretzel Bites:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons melted butter, for dipping
Instructions
- Making the Dough: Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Knead until smooth.
- Rising and Shaping: Let the dough rise, then divide, roll into ropes, and cut into bites.
- Boiling and Baking: Boil the pretzel bites, then bake until golden brown.
- Finishing: Add toppings for classic or sweet versions before serving warm.
Notes
- Pretzel bites are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore softness.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking, Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 batch
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
