Soft Pretzel Bites – A Family Favorite for Every Occasion
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making soft pretzels during the winter holidays. The aroma of warm dough and melted butter wafting through the house was a signal that something special was happening in the kitchen. Now, as a parent, I cherish those memories and love sharing this hands-on snack with my kids. Making soft pretzel bites together has become a delightful bonding experience, filled with laughter and a sprinkle of flour everywhere!
What Makes It Special
These soft pretzel bites are not just delicious; they are a fun activity for the whole family. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Interactive Fun: Kids love rolling and shaping the dough, making it a perfect hands-on activity.
- Customizable Flavors: You can easily add different toppings or dips to suit everyone’s taste.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for spontaneous snack cravings.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup baking soda
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
Let’s Get Cooking
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In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
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Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes.
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Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Once the dough has risen, divide it into small pieces and roll each piece into a bite-sized ball.
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In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda. Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then remove and place them on the baking sheet.
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Brush each bite with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Enjoy warm!
My Pro Tips
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For a twist, try adding garlic powder or cheese to the dough for extra flavor.
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Serve with a variety of dips like mustard, cheese sauce, or even chocolate for a sweet treat!
What to Serve With It
- Fresh fruit salad
- Vegetable sticks with hummus
- A refreshing lemonade or iced tea
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
The Heart of the Dish
Every time I make these soft pretzel bites, I’m reminded of the joy and laughter shared in the kitchen. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a way to create lasting memories with my children. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your family as it has to mine!
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn! I invite you to try this recipe, get creative with your toppings, and share your experiences. Let me know how your pretzel bites turn out and any fun variations you come up with!
Soft Pretzel Bites – The Ultimate Hands-On Snack for Kids
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
- Melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil.
- Divide the dough into small pieces and roll each piece into a rope, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Boil the pretzel bites in the baking soda water for 30 seconds, then remove and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the pretzel bites with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Brush with melted butter before serving.
Nutrition Information
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