Get ready to transform your kitchen into a gourmet pretzel paradise with these mouthwatering Cheesy Soft Pretzel Bites that will have everyone begging for more! Imagine golden, puffy little bites of cheesy goodness with a perfect crispy exterior and soft, pillowy interior that literally melt in your mouth. Whether you're hosting a game day party, looking for the ultimate movie night snack, or just craving something absolutely delicious, these pretzel bites are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- Coarse salt for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water (around 110°F), active dry yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and activated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
- Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Fold the shredded cheese into the dough, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for 10 minutes to allow the dough to rise slightly.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the dough into small equal-sized pieces, rolling each into bite-sized balls approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, bring water and baking soda to a gentle boil. Carefully drop pretzel bites into the water, boiling each batch for 30 seconds.
- Remove pretzel bites with a slotted spoon, allowing excess water to drain. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the boiled pretzel bites generously with coarse salt.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffy.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Best enjoyed warm with optional dipping sauces like mustard or cheese sauce.
Tips
- Water Temperature Matters: Ensure your water is precisely around 110°F when activating the yeast. Too hot, and you'll kill the yeast; too cold, and it won't activate properly.
- Knead with Love: Take your time kneading the dough to develop those perfect gluten strands that give pretzels their signature texture.
- Cheese Distribution: When folding in the shredded cheese, make sure it's evenly spread throughout the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Baking Soda Bath Secret: The brief boil in baking soda water is crucial - it gives pretzels their distinctive golden-brown color and classic pretzel flavor.
- Size Matters: Try to keep your pretzel bites uniform in size to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Serving Suggestion: These are best served warm, so time your baking just before serving for maximum deliciousness.
- Dipping Options: Prepare some mustard, cheese sauce, or marinara on the side for extra flavor excitement!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 50kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 3mg
