These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy little delights covered in a tasty garlic and cheese mix. They make a perfect snack or party treat!
I always find it hard to eat just one—they’re that good! Serve them warm and watch everyone reach for more. Trust me, you won’t want to share! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Water: It’s essential for activating the yeast. If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the water feels warm to your touch but not hot.
Active Dry Yeast: This is key for the dough to rise. If you have instant yeast, you can use it in the same amount without proofing it first.
All-Purpose Flour: This gives the pretzels their structure. If you want a heartier option, you could try whole wheat flour for a rustic flavor and texture. Just adjust the water slightly.
Coarse Salt: This is for the final sprinkle. If you’re watching your sodium intake, flaky sea salt is a great alternative since it has a lighter flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for flavor control. Olive oil can be a good dairy-free alternative, adding its own unique taste.
How Do I Make the Dough Rise Quickly?
Getting that perfect rise is crucial! For a quick rise, warm your kitchen by turning on the oven for a bit, then turning it off. Place the covered dough inside. The gentle warmth helps it rise beautifully.
- Make sure to check that the yeast is fresh if it doesn’t foam.
- Cover your bowl tightly with a damp cloth to prevent drying out.
Why Use Baking Soda in Boiling Water?
Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda water bath before baking gives them that classic crispy outer layer and rich flavor. It’s what sets pretzels apart! Here’s how to do it:
- Boil water first; then add baking soda carefully to avoid spills.
- Use a slotted spoon to dip the bites, making sure to let them sit for about 30 seconds to absorb the flavor.
Enjoy your pretzel-making journey, and feel free to customize them to your taste!
Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and mixing the dough, 1 hour for the dough to rise, and then about 15-20 minutes baking. Perfect for a cozy snack or impressive party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means your yeast is alive and ready to work!
2. Make the Dough:
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix everything together until a dough forms. Take it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.
3. Let It Rise:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a cloth and leave it in a warm spot to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. Patience is key!
4. Preheat and Prepare:
When the dough is ready, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. Boil the Dough:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and carefully stir in the baking soda. This step adds flavor and color to your pretzel bites!
6. Shape the Bites:
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a knife to cut it into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. These will puff up nicely when baked!
7. Boil the Bites:
Using a slotted spoon, dip the dough pieces into the boiling baking soda water for about 30 seconds. Then carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg to give them a beautiful golden-brown crust when baking.
9. Bake:
Bake the pretzel bites for 12-14 minutes or until they’re golden brown and fluffy!
10. Add Flavor:
While the pretzel bites are baking, mix together the melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl. This will brush on just after baking for that lovely garlic flavor!
11. Coat with Garlic Butter:
When the pretzel bites come out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter mixture to soak in all that flavor.
12. Finish with Parmesan:
Toss the pretzel bites in a bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if you’re using it. Sprinkle with coarse salt for that extra delicious touch!
13. Serve:
Enjoy these pretzel bites while they’re warm! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, like spicy mustard or gooey cheese dip, to make them even more irresistible.
There you have it! Homemade Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites that are soft, chewy, garlicky, and cheesy. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may change the texture slightly, making the pretzel bites denser. You may need to adjust the water content, possibly adding an extra tablespoon or two if the dough feels too dry.
What Happens if My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If the dough doesn’t rise, it could be because the yeast is not active. Double-check the expiration date on your yeast and make sure your water wasn’t too hot, which can kill the yeast. If it’s not foamy after 5 minutes, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast.
How Can I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes for the best texture. You can also microwave them, but they may lose their crispiness.
Can I Make These Pretzel Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after kneading. Just let it sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before continuing with the boiling and baking steps. You can also boil and shape them, then freeze them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to enjoy!
