Name: Easy Soft Pretzel Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F); 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2/3 cup baking soda (for water bath); 1 large egg, beaten; coarse salt for topping

Whether you’re hosting a game day party or looking for a comforting snack to satisfy your salty cravings, these Easy Soft Pretzel Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With their fluffy interior, golden crust, and classic chewy texture, every bite delivers that nostalgic mall pretzel experience—only better, because you made them yourself. They’re perfect dipped in cheese sauce, mustard, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

This recipe is beginner-friendly and doesn’t require fancy equipment or special ingredients. You can whip up a big batch in under an hour, making them an excellent option for spontaneous gatherings or after-school snacks. And once you try them warm out of the oven, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

What Kind of Dough Should I Use for Pretzel Bites?

You don’t need anything complicated—this dough is a simple combination of flour, yeast, sugar, and water. The magic step is the quick baking soda bath, which gives pretzels their signature chewy crust and deep brown color. For best results, use instant yeast so you can skip the long proofing time.

Ingredients for the Easy Soft Pretzel Bites

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup baking soda (for water bath)
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse salt, for topping

How To Make the Easy Soft Pretzel Bites

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Stir in the salt and flour gradually. Knead the dough for about 5-6 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Pretzel Bites

Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 6 portions, roll each into a rope about 12-14 inches long, and cut into 1-inch pieces.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

Bring 8 cups of water to a boil and add the baking soda slowly (it will foam). Working in batches, drop pretzel pieces into the bath for 20-30 seconds, then place them on the prepared sheets.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush each pretzel bite with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm!

How to Serve and Store Easy Soft Pretzel Bites

These soft pretzel bites are best served warm, right out of the oven. Pair them with cheddar cheese dip, spicy mustard, or a garlic butter glaze for savory options. You can even roll them in cinnamon sugar for a dessert version.

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore the soft texture. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat directly from frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the pretzel bites soft?

Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven, not the microwave, to retain their texture.

Can I skip the baking soda bath?

The baking soda bath is essential for the chewy texture and color—don’t skip it!

Can I freeze pretzel bites?

Yes! Freeze after baking. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

What dipping sauces go best?

Classic cheese sauce, honey mustard, marinara, or even Nutella for sweet versions.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but replace only half the flour for a softer result.

Why did my pretzels come out pale?

Make sure the baking soda is fully dissolved and the bites are boiled at least 20 seconds.

Want More Snack Ideas?

If you’re a fan of these Easy Soft Pretzel Bites, don’t miss these other addictive snacks on NinaDishes:

Cheesy Pizza Bombs for a stuffed, gooey twist.
Homemade Cheez-Its to satisfy your crunchy cravings.
Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars if you’re leaning sweet.
Candied Jalapenos for a bold kick.
Funnel Cake Bites to bring the fair to your kitchen.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest snack board so it’s ready whenever cravings hit.

And drop a comment below if you gave them a try! Did you stick to the classic salt, or go wild with cinnamon sugar? Any tips or twists? I love seeing all your variations—let’s inspire each other in the kitchen.

More daily recipes are shared over on Pinterest @NinaDishes. Come join the fun!

Easy Soft Pretzel Bites

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 8 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These Easy Soft Pretzel Bites are fluffy on the inside, perfectly golden on the outside, and come together in under an hour. Whether you’re hosting or snacking solo, they’re a guaranteed hit—especially when dipped in cheese sauce or rolled in cinnamon sugar.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)

2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

4 cups all-purpose flour

2/3 cup baking soda (for water bath)

1 large egg, beaten

coarse salt for topping

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Stir in the salt and flour gradually. Knead the dough for about 5-6 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Divide the dough into 6 portions, roll each into a 12-14 inch rope, and cut into 1-inch pieces.

4. Bring 8 cups of water to a boil and slowly add baking soda. Drop pretzel pieces in batches for 20-30 seconds, then transfer to sheets.

5. Brush each piece with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm!