These Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites are warm, soft, and bursting with flavor! Coated in melted butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, they’re perfect for snacking or sharing.
Making these little bites is a blast! I love how they come out golden and slightly crunchy on the outside. Dip them in your favorite sauce for an extra treat—trust me, you won’t want to stop at just one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is essential for getting those pretzel bites to rise and have a fluffy texture. If you run out, instant yeast works too—just skip the proofing step!
All-Purpose Flour: This gives the pretzel bites their structure. You could substitute half with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. However, it may change the texture a little.
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated cheese gives the best flavor, but if you can’t find it, use Pecorino Romano or even a good quality shredded Italian blend.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute!
How Do You Boil Pretzel Bites Without Making a Mess?
Boiling the pretzel bites is a critical step for achieving that classic pretzel texture and deep flavor. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Use a large pot to prevent overflow. Bring the water and baking soda to a boil before adding the pretzel bites.
- Boil in batches to avoid crowding. This ensures even cooking and helps keep your pot from bubbling over.
- Use a slotted spoon for effortless removal. Let excess water drip off before placing them on the baking sheet.
With these tips, you’ll make perfectly boiled pretzel bites every time! Enjoy the process and happy baking!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for coating)
For Boiling and Topping:
- 10 cups water (for boiling)
- 2/3 cup baking soda
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Coarse salt for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation, 1 hour for the dough to rise, and 12-14 minutes for baking. So, expect to spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in total to create these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is activated!
2. Make the Dough:
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough starts to form. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
4. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
5. Cut the Pretzel Bites:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Use a knife or pizza cutter to cut it into 1-inch squares for your pretzel bites.
6. Boil the Pretzel Bites:
In a large pot, bring 10 cups of water and the baking soda to a rolling boil. Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in batches. Boil each batch for about 30 seconds, then use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake the Pretzel Bites:
Bake the pretzel bites for 12-14 minutes or until they turn golden brown and delicious!
8. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
While the pretzel bites are baking, melt the remaining butter in a small pan and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
9. Coat the Pretzel Bites:
Once baked, remove the pretzel bites from the oven and toss them in the garlic butter to coat evenly.
10. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley if desired, and a pinch of coarse salt over the tops.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your warm Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara or mustard. Enjoy these cheesy, garlicky treats as a perfect snack or appetizer!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just keep in mind that it may change the texture slightly, making them a bit denser.
What Should I Do If My Dough Doesn’t Rise?
If your dough isn’t rising, it may be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your water is warm (not hot) when adding the yeast, and allow it to sit until foamy before mixing in the flour. If the yeast is old or expired, it might not activate properly—fresh yeast produces better results!
How Do I Store Leftover Pretzel Bites?
Store any leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to regain that fresh-baked texture.
Can I Freeze Pretzel Bites?
Yes, you can freeze pretzel bites! After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
