Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: Provides the base flavor and moisture. Be sure to use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Essential for the dough, giving it structure and chewiness.
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise, giving it that lovely soft texture.
- ¾ cup warm water (110°F): Activates the yeast for a fluffy pretzel.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice: Brings in that delicious fall flavor.
- 1 cup baking soda (for boiling): Used in the boiling step for that classic pretzel texture and flavor.
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling): A must for that salty topping.
Optional Dips:
- Cream cheese icing: Perfect for a sweet touch.
- Honey mustard: Adds a tangy bite that pairs beautifully with the sweet pumpkin.
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and brown sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the pumpkin mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much!
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: While the dough is rising, fill a large pot with water and add the baking soda. Bring it to a gentle boil. This step is crucial for achieving that iconic pretzel flavor.
- Shape the Pretzel Bites: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into small pieces (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each piece into a small rope, then twist it into a pretzel shape or simply roll into balls.
- Boil the Bites: Carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling baking soda water, a few at a time. Let them boil for about 30 seconds, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle with Salt: While they’re still wet, sprinkle the pretzel bites with coarse sea salt.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pretzel bites for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden brown.
- Serve Warm: Let them cool slightly before serving. These pretzel bites are best enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Pretzel
- Calories: 100 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 3g