Easy Pretzel Bites

Steps

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1. 1
   Add warm water (110-120°F), active dry yeast, and light brown sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer. Stir to combine and let sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy and bubbly to confirm it is alive.
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2. 2
   Add all-purpose flour, salt, and melted unsalted butter to the yeast mixture. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is shaggy in texture.
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3. 3
   Switch to the dough hook and continue mixing on low speed. The dough will appear wet initially; gradually add the remaining flour a quarter cup at a time until the dough pulls away from the bowl sides and reaches the right consistency.
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4. 4
   Mix the dough on low speed for about 5 minutes to properly develop the gluten. The dough should become smooth and stretchy. Test by gently stretching a small piece—it should form a translucent membrane without tearing.
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5. 5
   Transfer the dough to a large bowl lightly coated with oil, turning the dough to coat all sides. Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
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6. 6
   Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). In a large pot, bring about 3 cups of water to a boil. Lightly flour your work surface and turn out the risen dough.
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7. 7
   Divide the dough into four equal portions. Gently roll and stretch each portion into a rope about 22 inches long, using gravity to help and rolling gently. Add a light sprinkle of flour if the dough is too wet.
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8. 8
   Using a bench scraper, cut each rope into 1.5-inch pieces. These cuts create the signature pillow shape characteristic of pretzel bites.
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9. 9
   Once the water is boiling, slowly and carefully stir in the baking soda, adding it gradually to prevent overflow and bubbling. This baking soda bath gives the pretzels their signature golden-brown exterior.
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10. 10
    Carefully add the pretzel bites to the baking soda bath one at a time, stirring gently with a slotted spoon or spider for about 30 seconds. Make sure they are evenly coated, flipping at least once. After 30 seconds, remove them with a slotted spoon and place on a baking sheet with some space between each piece.
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11. 11
    Whisk one egg in a small bowl to make an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the tops of the pretzel bites.
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12. 12
    Sprinkle coarse sea salt or sea salt flakes generously over the tops, using as much as desired for your preferred saltiness.
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13. 13
    Place the pretzel bites in the preheated 425°F (218°C) oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until they are a deep golden brown color.
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14. 14
    Remove the pretzel bites from the oven and enjoy them warm. They have a crispy golden exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and spicy mustard.
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