These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are warm, soft, and coated in tasty garlic butter and Parmesan cheese. They’re perfect for snacking at any time!
Honestly, who can resist these little bites? I love serving them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. It always makes movie night extra special! 🍿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for making your pretzel bites fluffy. If you can’t find active dry yeast, instant yeast works just as well—just skip the foamy step and mix it directly with your dry ingredients.
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough! If you prefer, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture. Gluten-free flour blends are another option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Baking Soda: This is what gives pretzels their unique color and flavor. Don’t overlook it! However, if you run out, you can try using baking powder, but the taste and color won’t be exactly the same.
Parmesan Cheese: For that classic flavor! If you want a different twist, consider using pecorino romano or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Can I Get My Pretzel Bites to Have a Great Texture?
Getting that perfect chewy texture is key for pretzel bites. The process of boiling them in baking soda water before baking is what helps achieve that classic pretzel crust. Here are some simple steps:
- Be sure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the dough balls; this helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; boil a few at a time to make sure they all get submerged and cook well.
- 30 seconds in the boiling water is just right—too long can cause them to become rubbery.
These techniques will lead you to soft, flavorful pretzel bites that everyone will love!
Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
What You’ll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Coarse sea salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes total, including 1 hour for the dough to rise and about 15-20 minutes for preparation and baking. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing and boiling the dough—easy and worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, mix together the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it bubbles and becomes foamy. This means your yeast is alive and ready!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
Add the flour and kosher salt to the yeast mixture and stir until everything is combined. Then, knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. It should be nice and springy!
3. Let It Rise:
Put the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a towel. Find a warm spot in your kitchen and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This helps develop that amazing texture!
4. Preheat & Prepare:
While your dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin to make sure your pretzel bites don’t stick.
5. Boil the Dough:
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil. This is the magic step for that pretzel flavor and color!
6. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
Once your dough has finished rising, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide it into small pieces, rolling them into 1-inch balls.
7. Boil the Bites:
Drop the dough balls into the boiling water one by one, being careful not to overcrowd them. Boil for about 30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to take them out and place them in the greased mini muffin tin.
8. Bake:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake the pretzel bites for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.
9. Butter & Garlic Time:
While the bites are baking, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic in a small bowl.
10. Finish & Serve:
As soon as the pretzel bites come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Then, sprinkle a good amount of grated Parmesan on top! Optionally, add fresh parsley and coarse sea salt for extra flavor.
11. Enjoy!
These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are best served warm. Pair them with marinara sauce or mustard for dipping. Enjoy your tasty snack!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes, you can! If using instant yeast, you can skip the foaming step. Just mix it directly with the flour and salt, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven for a crispy texture.
Can I Freeze the Pretzel Bites?
Absolutely! After baking and before brushing with butter, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces?
These pretzel bites are delicious with marinara or mustard sauce! You could also try cheese sauce or even ranch dressing for a fun twist.