These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are warm, soft, and oh-so-tasty! Coated with a buttery garlic mix and sprinkled with parmesan, they make the perfect snack.
Honestly, I can never just eat one! They’re great for movie nights or as a fun party treat. Just serve them with some marinara sauce for dipping—I promise you’ll be hooked! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is what makes the pretzel bites rise. If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast, using the same amount, but skip the proofing step.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the dough’s structure. You can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture, or, if gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Butter: Adds flavor and richness. For a dairy-free option, swap melted butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work too—just use about 1/2 teaspoon.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
How Do You Boil Pretzel Bites Without Making a Mess?
Boiling the pretzel bites in a baking soda solution is key for that classic pretzel flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Bring 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup of baking soda to a rolling boil in a large pot.
- Drop in the pretzel dough pieces one at a time; this prevents them from sticking together. Don’t overcrowd the pot!
- Boil for only 30 seconds; this helps them get that chewy crust.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let any excess water drain off before placing them on a baking sheet.
Taking your time during this step will help keep your kitchen clean and your bites perfectly cooked!
Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
For the Boiling Solution:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
For the Topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes total. You’ll need around 15 minutes for prep time, 1 hour to let the dough rise, and about 15-20 minutes for baking. After all that, you’ll have delicious, warm pretzel bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
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 the yeast is alive and ready to work! Next, add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until everything is mixed well, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
2. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Find a warm spot to let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. Patience pays off here!
3. Boil Water Solution:
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a boil. This step is crucial for that classic pretzel flavor!
4. Shape and Boil Pretzel Bites:
Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into roughly 1-inch pieces. Carefully drop the bites into the boiling water a few at a time, allowing them to boil for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the pretzel bites in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden brown and look delicious!
6. Add the Flavor:
While the pretzel bites are baking, mix the melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl. Once the bites are out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter mixture.
7. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the hot pretzel bites with grated Parmesan, parsley, and a little coarse sea salt, if desired. Serve them warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!
Get ready for a mouthwatering experience with these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites!
Can I Use All-Purpose Flour Instead of Bread Flour?
Absolutely! All-purpose flour works well and will give you great results. If you want a chewier texture, bread flour can be a good alternative, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance! After kneading, cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the boiling and baking steps.
What Should I Do If the Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough didn’t rise, it might be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your water is warm (not hot) when proofing the yeast. If it still doesn’t foam after 5 minutes, it’s best to start with a new packet of yeast!
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy them crispy again!