Pretzel Bites Recipe

Activate yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C), granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit 5–8 minutes until foamy and fragrant.

Mix dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook (or a large bowl if mixing by hand), combine all-purpose flour and fine salt. Pour in the foamy yeast mixture and melted butter. Mix on low speed until combined, then increase to medium and knead 4–6 minutes until a smooth, slightly tacky but not sticky dough forms. If kneading by hand, knead on a lightly floured surface about 8–10 minutes.

First rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm draft-free spot until doubled in size, about 45–60 minutes.

Divide and roll

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside. Punch down the risen dough and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 12 inches long, then cut each rope into 1–1.5 inch pieces to form bites (yielding roughly 80–100 bites depending on size).

Prepare alkaline bath

In a wide, shallow pot, bring 8 cups water to a gentle simmer. Carefully stir in 1/2 cup baking soda (it will foam). Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer — do not boil vigorously.

Poach bites

Working in small batches (8–12 pieces at a time), carefully drop pretzel bites into the simmering baking soda bath. Boil each batch for 20–30 seconds, turning once with a slotted spoon so each side firms. Remove with the slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between bites.

Egg wash and salt

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with 1 teaspoon cold water to make an egg wash. Lightly brush each pretzel bite with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse kosher salt to taste.

Bake

Bake in the preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the bites are deep golden brown.

Finish

Remove from oven and immediately brush with 1 tablespoon melted butter if desired for extra shine and flavor. Let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving.