These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are a tasty treat! Soft and chewy, they’re coated with garlic and sprinkled with parmesan for extra flavor. Perfect for munching while watching a movie!
I love how quick they are to whip up. You can enjoy them warm, just right out of the oven, for a delicious snack. Plus, who can resist that garlicy, cheesy goodness? Yum! 🧄🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Warm Water: This activates the yeast and should be between 100°F and 110°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure it feels warm but not hot to the touch. You can also use milk for a richer flavor.
Active Dry Yeast: Look for yeast that is fresh and active. If you don’t have it, you can swap with instant yeast using the same amount, skipping the foaming step.
All-Purpose Flour: This flour works best for a chewy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Soda: Essential for that traditional pretzel flavor in the boiling step. If you’re out, you can use baking powder, but it won’t have the same depth.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds the best flavor. You can use Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep it vegan.
Why is Kneading Important?
Kneading develops the gluten in the dough, giving the pretzel bites their chewy texture. It’s crucial not to skip this step! Here’s how:
- Flour your surface and your hands to prevent sticking.
- Fold the dough over, pushing down with the heels of your hands. Turn 90 degrees and repeat.
- Continue kneading for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
How Do I Achieve That Perfect Pretzel Color?
The key is the baking soda bath before baking! This step not only gives the pretzels their unique taste but also helps achieve that beautiful brown finish. Here’s how:
- Bring the water and baking soda to a boil carefully, as it can bubble quite a bit.
- Boil each pretzel bite for about 30 seconds. This helps set the outside before baking.
- Make sure to remove them promptly using a slotted spoon to avoid overcooking.
Enjoy your crunchy, cheesy Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites, perfect for sharing or snacking!
Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 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
For the Boiling Solution:
- 10 cups water
- 2/3 cup baking soda
For the Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 1 hour for the dough to rise. You will also need 12-15 minutes to bake the pretzel bites. So, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 30 minutes in total to make these delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This means your yeast is working!
2. Make the Dough:
Add the flour and salt into the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms. Then, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface.
3. Knead the Dough:
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Don’t rush this step; it helps develop the texture!
4. Let It Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Preheat the Oven:
When the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and give them a light greasing to prevent sticking.
6. Prepare the Boiling Solution:
In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water and baking soda to a rolling boil. This is a crucial step for that classic pretzel flavor!
7. Shape the Pretzel Bites:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about ½ inch thick. Cut the dough into 1 to 1 ½ inch bite-sized pieces.
8. Boil the Dough Bites:
Using a slotted spoon, carefully drop the dough pieces into the boiling baking soda water in batches. Boil for about 30 seconds before removing them and placing them on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake the Pretzel Bites:
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the pretzel bites bake, mix the melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl. This will be the delicious topping!
11. Coat with Garlic Butter and Cheese:
Once baked, take the pretzel bites out of the oven and brush them generously with the garlic butter. Then, toss them in the grated Parmesan cheese to coat evenly.
12. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley on top for color. Serve these warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade pretzel bites!
There you have it! Delicious, soft Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites that are sure to be a hit. Enjoy! 🎉
Can I Use Frozen Dough for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before using it. Once thawed, you can follow the same steps starting from punching down the dough.
Can I Make These Pretzel Bites Without Yeast?
While traditional pretzel bites rely on yeast for leavening and texture, you can substitute for a quick version by using a baking powder dough. Mix 2 cups of flour with 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of yogurt for a faster option. The results will be a bit different, but still delicious!
What Should I Do If the Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading until it’s smooth and manageable. Be careful not to add too much flour as it can make the bites dense.
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warm and crispy again.
