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Soft Pretzel Bites with Creamy Garlic Dip

Golden, chewy soft pretzel bites paired with a rich and creamy garlic dip make the ultimate snack for parties, game days, or even breakfast!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
rise time app. 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Appetizer, Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 30 servings

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or stand mixer
  • Large pot (for boiling)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients
  

For the Pretzel Bites:

  • 1 1/2 cups warm water 110°F or 45°C
  • 1 packet active dry yeast 2 1/4 tsp
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1/2 cup baking soda for boiling
  • 8 cups water for boiling
  • Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

For the Creamy Garlic Dip:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

For the Pretzel Bites:

    Prepare the Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add salt, melted butter, and flour. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

    Let It Rise:

    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

    Shape the Pretzel Bites:

    • Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 portions. Roll each into a 1-inch diameter rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.

    Boil the Pretzel Bites:

    • In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water and 1/2 cup baking soda to a boil. Boil the dough pieces in batches for 20–30 seconds, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    Bake the Pretzel Bites:

    • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Brush the boiled dough pieces with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown.

    For the Creamy Garlic Dip:

    • In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
    • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Chill for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

    To Serve:

    • Arrange the pretzel bites on a platter and serve with the creamy garlic dip on the side.

    Notes

    Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated after the first rise.
    Storage: Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
    Variations: Try cinnamon sugar, everything bagel seasoning, or stuffed pretzel bites for a fun twist.
    Keyword creamy garlic dip, homemade pretzels, party appetizers, Soft pretzel bites