Description
A shortcut recipe for authentic Bavarian-style pretzel bites using canned biscuit-style shortcuts and active dry yeast. These treats are ready in 30 minutes, featuring a chewy interior, crisp golden crust, and versatile dipping options.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 packets (4 1/2 tsp) Active Dry Yeast
- 1 1/2 cups Warm Water (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 3 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter, melted
- 1 tsp Salt (for dough)
- 2/3 cup Baking Soda (for boiling bath)
- Coarse Kosher Salt (for topping)
- Melted Butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Proof the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour and 1 tsp salt. Add melted butter and proofed yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
- First Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 15 minutes.
- Shape: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll each into a 12-inch rope and tie into knots. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Boil: Bring a large pot of water and baking soda to a boil. Drop 4-5 pretzels into the water for 30 seconds per side. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Bake: Brush boiled pretzels with melted butter and sprinkle generously with coarse salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until deeply golden brown.
- Cool: Let cool for 5 minutes on the pan before serving warm.
Notes
Ensure water temperature for yeast proofing is between 105°F and 115°F. Do not skip the boiling step as it creates the authentic pretzel crust. Pretzels are best eaten fresh; they do not store well at room temperature. Unbaked shaped pretzels can be frozen and baked straight from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pretzel bite
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 5
Keywords: pretzel bites, oktoberfest recipe, easy pretzels, homemade pretzels, party snacks, german food, 30 minute recipes, yeast dough