Easy Soft Pretzel Bites

These easy soft pretzel bites make a fantastic snack that comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients. Using refrigerated biscuit dough cuts down on preparation time, while boiling them briefly in a baking soda bath creates that signature chewy crust and flavor you expect from a classic pretzel. They bake up golden and soft inside with a satisfying crust sprinkled with coarse salt, making them perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying whenever a savory bite calls your name.

I first tried making these when I wanted a snack for a game night and was surprised how such simple dough could transform into something so addictive. Now they’re my go-to when craving a salty treat that doesn’t require hours or fancy ingredients.

Ingredients

• One can of refrigerated biscuit dough: convenient and already portioned, look for flaky layers
• Quarter cup baking soda: essential for the alkaline bath that forms the pretzel’s crust and flavor
• One egg: for the egg wash that helps the salt stick and gives a beautiful golden color
• One tablespoon water: mixed with the egg to thin out the wash for even coating
• Coarse salt: adds crunch and enhances the classic pretzel taste choose a flaky sea salt for best texture

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Getting the oven hot ahead of time sets you up for a nice rise and crust.

Prepare Dough:

Separate the biscuit dough into individual pieces. Roll each biscuit into a small rope shape about six inches long. Cut each rope into four equal pieces. These will become your pretzel bites, so try to keep them roughly the same size for even cooking.

Boil Baking Soda Bath:

Fill a large pot halfway with water and bring it to a full rolling boil. Carefully stir in a quarter cup of baking soda. This creates an alkaline water bath that changes the dough’s pH and helps develop the chewy crust and classic deep flavor pretzels are known for.

Boil Dough Pieces:

Working in batches, gently drop the dough pieces into the boiling baking soda water. Let them boil for about 15 seconds on one side, then flip and boil another 15 seconds. This step is critical to develop the pretzel texture but not cook the dough through. Use a slotted spoon to lift the bites and transfer them to the lined baking sheet.

Apply Egg Wash and Salt:

In a small bowl, whisk the egg with one tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush it evenly over each pretzel bite to help the coarse salt adhere and to encourage even browning as they bake. Sprinkle the coarse salt immediately after applying the wash. Don’t be shy here; the salt is part of the charm.

Bake:

Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the pretzel bites are golden brown. Some may appear a bit darker than others which adds to their rustic look and deep flavor. Keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark to prevent burning.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how the baking soda bath magically transforms simple biscuit dough into something that tastes like an upscale bakery treat. It reminds me of making these with my siblings while growing up watching the dough bubble and emerge golden was always exciting.

Storage Tips

You can store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to four days but warm them briefly in the oven before serving to restore softness. For longer storage, freeze cooked pretzel bites in a sealed bag or container and reheat in the oven straight from the freezer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If biscuit dough is unavailable, you can try using pizza dough or pre-made bread dough but the texture will be slightly different. Use coarse sea salt or kosher salt instead of flaky sea salt if needed. Instead of an egg wash, brush with melted butter for a softer crust and a buttery flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These pretzel bites are delicious served with classic yellow mustard or a creamy cheese dip like beer cheese or queso. They also work well alongside soups or salads as a fun snack or appetizer. For a sweet twist, try dipping them in melted chocolate or caramel.

Enjoy these soft pretzel bites fresh and warm for the best experience.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What gives pretzel bites their classic crust?

Boiling the dough pieces briefly in a baking soda bath before baking develops the distinctive chewy crust and unique pretzel flavor.

→ Can I use biscuit dough for pretzel bites?

Yes, refrigerated biscuit dough works well to create soft pretzel bites with minimal preparation.

→ Why brush with egg wash before baking?

An egg wash promotes browning and helps coarse salt adhere to the surface of the pretzel bites.

→ How long should pretzel bites be boiled in baking soda water?

Each side should be boiled for about 15 seconds to set the crust without cooking through.

→ What temperature is best for baking soft pretzel bites?

Baking at 425°F (220°C) ensures a golden brown, rustic finish with a soft interior.