1. Prepare the Dough

Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to go.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and melted butter to the flour. Stir everything together until a dough begins to form. Once the dough starts coming together, transfer it to a clean surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much, as you want the dough to remain soft and slightly tacky.

Once the dough has been kneaded to the right consistency, form it into a ball and place it back in the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. This step allows the dough to rise and develop flavor.

2. Shape the Pretzel Bites

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Then, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into smaller sections. Roll each section into a long rope, about 12 inches in length. You can use a bench scraper or a knife to cut the rope into bite-sized pieces, typically around 1 to 1.5 inches each.

At this point, you can preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent the pretzel bites from sticking.

3. Prepare the Baking Soda Bath

While the dough is resting, it’s time to prepare the baking soda bath. In a large pot, bring the 10 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, carefully stir in the baking soda. This creates the alkaline solution that gives the pretzels their signature chewy texture and golden-brown color when baked.

Working in batches, carefully drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water, allowing them to cook for about 30 seconds. Use a slotted spoon or a spider strainer to remove the bites from the water and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

4. Bake the Pretzel Bites

After boiling the pretzel bites, brush them with the beaten egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden color once baked. Sprinkle the pretzel bites with coarse sea salt, ensuring each bite is generously coated.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the pretzel bites are golden brown and have a slightly crispy exterior. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as ovens may vary in temperature.

Once baked, remove the pretzel bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack before serving. The pretzels will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet, so don’t worry if they look a little soft when you first remove them from the oven.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the pretzel bites have cooled for a few minutes, they are ready to be served. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces such as cheese sauce, mustard, or even chocolate for a sweet and salty combination.

These Soft Pretzel Bites are perfect for snacking, serving at parties, or even enjoying as a side with your favorite meal. Their warm, soft texture and salty topping make them irresistible!