These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor! Coated in buttery garlic goodness and a sprinkle of parmesan, they make the perfect snack.
Honestly, I can never stop at just one! They’re great for movie nights or as a party treat. Just serve them warm with your favorite dip, and watch them disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is crucial for making the dough rise. If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast in the same amount; it rises faster and doesn’t need to be proofed with warm water.
All-Purpose Flour: While all-purpose flour works perfectly, you could use bread flour for a chewier texture. If gluten is a concern, try a gluten-free flour blend, but the recipe’s texture may vary.
Baking Soda: This is key for the pretzel’s unique flavor and brown color. There’s really no substitute for baking soda in this recipe, so it’s best to use it as is.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-grated parmesan or even Romano cheese for a slightly different taste.
Butter and Garlic: I love using unsalted butter to control the salt level. For a healthier twist, you can substitute olive oil and add more garlic for an extra punch.
Why is Boiling the Pretzel Bites Important?
Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda solution is a vital step. This process gives the pretzels their signature flavor and chewy texture. It also helps them achieve that lovely golden exterior when baked. Here’s how to do it right:
- Bring 10 cups of water to a rolling boil with 2/3 cup baking soda. Be careful—it will bubble up!
- Boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 30 seconds each. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the baking sheet.
- This step not only enhances flavor but also creates that perfect chewy outside. Don’t skip it!
Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 10 cups water (for boiling)
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes in total. This includes 1 hour for the dough to rise, plus about 15-20 minutes for preparation and baking. It’s an excellent activity to do with family or friends—perfect for a snack or game day treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar together. Stir it gently and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks foamy. This means the yeast is alive and kicking!
2. Make the Dough:
Next, add the flour and salt to your yeast mixture. Stir everything together until you have a ball of dough. It might be slightly sticky—this is okay!
3. Knead It:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 5-7 minutes, adding just a bit of flour if it’s too sticky. You want the dough to be smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise:
Put the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a towel or plastic wrap. Place it in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This rising step is crucial for fluffy pretzel bites!
5. Preheat the Oven:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and line some baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, and roll it into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick. Cut the dough into small bite-sized squares—whatever size you like!
7. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water to a rolling boil and add the baking soda. Be careful as it will bubble up! Using a slotted spoon, boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 30 seconds. This helps them get that classic pretzel texture.
8. Bake:
Once boiled, place the pretzel bites on your prepared baking sheets. Bake them for 12-15 minutes, or until they are a beautiful golden brown.
9. Butter and Garlic:
While the pretzel bites are baking, mix the melted butter and minced garlic together in a small bowl.
10. Finish and Serve:
When the pretzel bites are out of the oven, brush them immediately with the garlic butter mixture. Then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan, chopped parsley if using, and coarse sea salt. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or mustard. Enjoy your tasty snack!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Absolutely! You can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast using the same amount. The benefit of instant yeast is that it doesn’t need to be proofed in water, so you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
How Can I Make These Pretzel Bites Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free pretzel bites, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to help with texture. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to get them warm and crispy again.
Can I Freeze Pretzel Bites?
Yes, you can freeze the pretzel bites! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for about 1-2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven for the best results!
