Name: Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups warm water (110°F); 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing); ½ cup baking soda; 6 cups water; coarse salt for topping

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s just something undeniably joyful about Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites fresh from the oven—the way the golden, pillow-soft pieces practically melt in your mouth is pure comfort. This bite-sized version of classic pretzels brings bakery-level flavor home, all with simple ingredients and a bit of hands-on fun. Whether you’re after a cozy snack, an irresistible party platter, or a foolproof crowd-pleaser, these little pretzel nuggets manange to steal the show every time.

Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes these Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites so delightful is how every ingredient plays a starring role, transforming pantry basics into something truly special. From the warm, yeasty dough to the signature baking soda bath, each element builds the flavor, texture, and beautiful color of these snackable treats.

Warm water (1½ cups, 110°F): The perfect temperature helps activate the yeast and sets the dough off to a great start.
Active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons or 1 packet): This is what gives your pretzel bites that fluffy, bouncy texture.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): A little sweetness feeds the yeast and gently balances the salty top.
All-purpose flour (4 cups): Classic flour provides just the right structure while keeping things tender and chewy.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for flavor, both in the dough and as a counterpart to the buttery finish.
Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons, plus more for brushing): Butter in the dough and on top for that signature rich finish and ultra-soft bite.
Baking soda (½ cup): The secret to that gorgeous brown crust you’ll find in true soft pretzels.
Water (6 cups, for boiling): Used with baking soda to give the bites their characteristic pretzel texture and flavor.
Coarse salt: A generous sprinkle brings all the flavors together. Don’t be shy!

How to Make Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining your warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy across the top. That foamy layer means your yeast is alive and ready to get things rising!

Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough

Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir everything together until a scraggly dough forms, then turn it out onto a floured countertop. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes—press and fold until you’ve got a smooth, elastic dough. This step is where the chewy, tender texture of Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites develops, so enjoy the process.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap. Set it in a warm spot and let it rise for about an hour, or until it’s doubled in size. This simple pause gives you incredibly light, fluffy bites.

Step 4: Shape the Pretzel Bites

Punch down the risen dough gently to deflate it, then divide into 6 equal portions. Roll each one into a rope about 12 inches long. Using a sharp knife or bench scraper, cut each rope into 1½-inch pieces—these will puff up adorably in the oven!

Step 5: Give Them the Pretzel Bath

Preheat your oven to 425°F and prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper. Bring 6 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil in a large pot. Working in batches, drop the pretzel bites into the simmering water for just 20 to 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets. This classic step is why Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites get that golden exterior and perfect texture.

Step 6: Butter, Salt, and Bake

Brush each bite generously with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Pop them into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until they’re a deep golden brown and your kitchen smells like a bakery at its best. For extra sheen and flavor, brush with even more melted butter as soon as they’re out of the oven.

How to Serve Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites

Garnishes

Right after baking, while your Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are still warm, sprinkle a bit of extra coarse salt or try a dusting of flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch. For a bit of fun, consider tossing them with a bit of garlic powder or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

Side Dishes

These bites are designed to be the stars of any snack spread, but they shine alongside tangy yellow mustard, creamy cheese dip, or a ramekin of honey butter. Pair them with a bowl of soup or a crisp salad for a surprisingly satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites piled high on a platter with a trio of dips, or skewer them with cubes of cheddar for a fun party popper. Arrange in a breadbasket lined with a cheerful kitchen towel, or stack in a mason jar with a side of dip for a portable treat—there’s no limit to how festive you can make them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you (miraculously) have leftovers, just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. They’ll stay soft and delicious, especially if you give them a quick re-toast before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze till firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months and make a perfect made-ahead party snack.

Reheating

To bring them back to life, pop frozen or room-temperature pretzel bites into a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. If you’re craving that just-baked finish, brush on a little extra melted butter right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! You can use the same amount of instant yeast as active dry, and simply add it directly to your flour without activating first. Your Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites will rise just as beautifully.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can complete the kneading step, then cover and refrigerate the dough overnight. The next day, shape, boil, and bake right before serving for the freshest flavor.

Why do I need a baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is the secret behind the classic pretzel flavor, color, and chewy crust. It creates that iconic texture that makes Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites so irresistible, so don’t skip this step!

Can I make these bites gluten-free?

While this recipe is written for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. The texture may be a little different, but they’ll still be deliciously snackable!

What’s the best dip to serve with these?

Classic yellow or spicy mustard is always a winner, but warm cheese sauce or sweet honey butter are also favorites. Don’t be afraid to try ranch, pesto, or even marinara for a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

Sharing a batch of Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites is pure home-baked happiness. Warm, buttery, and deliciously addicting, they’re sure to be your new go-to for gatherings—or anytime you want to treat yourself. Give them a try, and prepare for lots of smiles (and requests for the recipe!).

Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Buttery Soft Pretzel Bites are a delightful snack or appetizer that’s easy to make at home. With a golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior, these pretzel bites are perfect for dipping in mustard, cheese, or honey butter.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough:

1½ cups warm water (110°F)
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)

Boiling Solution:

½ cup baking soda
6 cups water

Topping:

coarse salt for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare Dough: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Knead until smooth, then let rise for 1 hour.
Shape Pretzel Bites: Divide dough, roll into ropes, cut into bites.
Boil Pretzel Bites: Boil in baking soda water, then bake until golden.
Finish: Brush with butter, sprinkle with salt, and enjoy!