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Ingredients
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Dough
Baking Soda Bath
Topping & Finish
Method
Dough
- 1
Activate yeast and mix dough
In a medium bowl whisk warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C) with the sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the surface and let sit 5–8 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl combine the flour and kosher salt. Add the foamy yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir with a wooden spoon or paddle until a shaggy dough forms.
- 2
Knead
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for 6–8 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky. Alternatively, knead in a stand mixer with the dough hook on medium speed for 4–5 minutes. The dough should be elastic and hold together.
- 3
Shape & Prepare Bath
- 4
Preheat and prepare pans
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
- 5
Divide and roll
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Working with one piece at a time, roll each into a long rope about 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) long and 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick. Using a sharp bench scraper or knife, cut each rope into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces to form bites. Repeat with remaining pieces.
- 6
Prepare baking soda bath
In a large, shallow pot bring 8 cups of water and 2 cups baking soda to a gentle simmer. Stir until the baking soda dissolves and the water is steaming but not vigorously boiling.
Bath & Bake
- 7
Boil pretzel bites
Working in small batches (about 12–16 bites at a time depending on pot size), gently drop pretzel bites into the simmering baking soda bath using a slotted spoon. Boil each batch for 20–30 seconds, turning once halfway, then remove with the slotted spoon and let excess water drip back into the pot. Place the boiled bites on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
- 8
- 9
Bake
Bake in the preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 12–15 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the pretzel bites are deep golden brown. Baking time may vary slightly depending on oven and bite size—watch for even browning.
Finish
- 10
- 11
Serve
Serve warm with mustard, cheese sauce, or your preferred dip. Store leftover bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to refresh.
