Air Fryer Pretzel Bites
Soft, chewy homemade pretzel bites with a golden brown exterior and perfect salt-studded crust. These addictive snacks are air-fried to perfection and served with creamy cheese sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (105-110°F)
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 8 cups water (for baking soda bath)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp pretzel salt or coarse sea salt
- 1 cup prepared cheese sauce (for dipping)
- 1/2 cup whole grain mustard (for dipping)
Instructions
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1
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (105-110°F), 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast, and 2 tbsp granulated sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
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2
Add 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter to the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms.
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3
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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4
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
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5
Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and bring 8 cups water (for baking soda bath) and 1/2 cup baking soda to a simmer in a large pot (this creates the baking soda bath).
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6
Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a rope about 1-inch thick, then cut each rope into 1 inchs to make pretzel bites.
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7
Working in batches, drop the pretzel bites into the simmering baking soda bath for 20-30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon to a paper towel-lined plate.
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8
Transfer the pretzel bites to the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece. Brush with 1 beaten large egg and sprinkle with 2 tbsp pretzel salt or coarse sea salt.
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9
Air fry for 7-8 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are golden brown.
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10
Serve warm with 1 cup prepared cheese sauce (for dipping) and 1/2 cup whole grain mustard (for dipping) for dipping.