Active dry yeast: 1 packet (about 2 1/4 teaspoons) – helps the dough rise.
Warm water: 1 1/2 cups (360ml) – to activate the yeast.
Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon – feeds the yeast.
Salt: 1 teaspoon – flavors the dough.
All-purpose flour: 4 to 4 1/2 cups (500-562g) – the base of the dough.
Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30g), melted – adds richness to the dough.
Baking soda: 2/3 cup (90g) – for boiling the bites, creating the classic pretzel texture and flavor.
Water: 10 cups (2.4 liters) – for the baking soda bath.
Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt: For sprinkling – adds texture and flavor.
For Dipping Sauces (Optional):
Mustard Sauce: Mix equal parts of mustard and honey for a sweet and tangy dip.
Cheese Sauce: Melt together cheddar cheese, a bit of milk, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a creamy dip.
Garlic Parmesan Butter: Melt butter with minced garlic, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Instructions
Dough Preparation:
In a large bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
Add salt and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Form the Pretzel Bites:
Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into small pieces, rolling each into a ball to form mini pretzel bites.
Baking Soda Bath:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil. Add baking soda carefully (it will bubble up).
Boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 30 seconds each, removing them with a slotted spoon and placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake:
Sprinkle the boiled pretzel bites with coarse salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Prepare Dipping Sauces (Optional):
While the pretzel bites are baking, prepare your chosen dipping sauces.
Serve:
Serve the mini pretzel bites warm with the dipping sauces on the side.