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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites

crispy garlic parmesan pretzel bites - featured image

These crispy garlic parmesan pretzel bites feature a crunchy outside and soft inside, brushed with buttery herbs and Parmesan for a flavorful homemade snack perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (about 440 g)
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (one packet)
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (42 g)
  • ¼ cup baking soda (60 g)
  • 10 cups water (2.4 L) for boiling
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (85 g) for herb butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining warm water (110°F / 43°C), sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently and let sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add melted butter, salt, and about 3 cups (375 g) of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined, then gradually add remaining flour until dough pulls away from sides but remains slightly sticky.
  3. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 7-10 minutes until smooth and springy. Alternatively, knead with a stand mixer on medium speed for 6 minutes.
  4. Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until doubled in size.
  5. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). In a large pot, bring 10 cups water and ¼ cup baking soda to a boil.
  6. Punch down risen dough and roll into a 1-inch thick rope. Cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
  7. Boil pretzel bites in baking soda water in batches for 30 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  8. Bake pretzel bites for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  9. While baking, combine melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper to make garlic Parmesan herb butter.
  10. Brush pretzel bites generously with garlic Parmesan herb butter immediately after baking. Serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh garlic for best flavor. If garlic butter solidifies, gently warm before brushing. Water temperature is critical for yeast activation. Do not skip the baking soda bath for authentic crust. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight. For dairy-free, substitute butter and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: pretzel bites, garlic parmesan, homemade snack, crispy pretzels, buttery herbs, easy recipe, party snack