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Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe Easy Homemade Cozy Snack with Honey Mustard Dip

soft pretzel bites recipe - featured image

Soft pretzel bites paired with a sweet honey mustard dip create a cozy, comforting snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ½ tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (60g) baking soda (for boiling)
  • Water (enough to fill a large pot for boiling)
  • 12 tbsp coarse sea salt or pretzel salt (for topping)
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) mayonnaise (for dip)
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (for dip)
  • 2 tbsp honey (for dip)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (for dip)
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika (for dip)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle active dry yeast over the surface and let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Make the dough: Add melted butter, salt, and 3 cups (360g) of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until flour is mostly incorporated.
  3. Knead the dough: Gradually add remaining ½ cup (60g) flour while kneading by hand or with a stand mixer dough hook. Knead about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with mixer until smooth and elastic.
  4. First rise: Shape dough into a ball, place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise in warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Prepare baking soda bath: Bring about 8 cups (2 liters) water to gentle boil in large pot. Slowly add baking soda and stir.
  7. Shape bites: Punch down dough, roll into 1-inch thick rope, cut into 1-inch pieces.
  8. Boil bites: Drop bites into boiling baking soda water in batches for 20-30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on baking sheet.
  9. Salt and bake: Sprinkle bites with coarse salt and bake for 12-15 minutes until deep golden brown.
  10. Make honey mustard dip: Whisk mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice in small bowl. Add cayenne or smoked paprika if desired.
  11. Cool and serve: Transfer pretzel bites to cooling rack and serve warm with honey mustard dip.

Notes

Water temperature is critical for yeast activation; aim for about 110°F (43°C). Kneading develops gluten for chewy texture. Boiling in baking soda water is essential for authentic pretzel crust. Salt generously with coarse salt for best texture. Watch oven temperature to avoid burning. Dip sweetness and tanginess can be adjusted to taste. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour blend; for dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil and use vegan mayo.

Nutrition

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