Air Fryer Pretzel Bites {Soft Pretzel Bites}

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Freshly made air fryer pretzel bites in a bowl, perfect for snacking.
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Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Pretzel Bites are a fun and tasty snack. They are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. Making these bites in an air fryer means you can enjoy all the goodness of traditional pretzels without deep frying. They are great for parties, game nights, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they are easy to make and fun to eat!

How to Make Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Making Air Fryer Pretzel Bites is simple. The process involves mixing ingredients, forming the dough, and air frying until golden. Here’s how you can create these delicious bites in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups water (~110˚F)
  • 2 1/4 tsp quick rise yeast (see notes for active dry yeast)
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar (or honey)
  • Pretzel salt (optional)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/3 cup baking soda
  • 1 egg (beaten)
  • 1 tbsp water
  • 3 tbsp butter (melted)

Directions:

  1. Make the Dough

    1. In a bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
    2. Add the flour, sea salt, and sugar to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
    3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
    4. Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover it and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  2. Prepare the Baking Soda Solution

    1. In a pot, bring the 4 cups of water and baking soda to a boil.
    2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

  3. Shape the Pretzel Bites

    1. Preheat your air fryer to 375˚F.
    2. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into small pieces.
    3. Roll each piece into a rope and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
    4. Carefully place the pretzel bites into the simmering baking soda solution for about 30 seconds, then remove and drain them.

  4. Air Fry the Pretzel Bites

    1. Brush each pretzel bite with the beaten egg mixed with water.
    2. Sprinkle with pretzel salt if desired.
    3. Arrange the bites in the air fryer basket so they don’t touch. Air fry for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown.
Air Fryer Pretzel Bites {Soft Pretzel Bites}

How to Serve Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Serve these pretzel bites warm with your favorite dips. Mustard and cheese sauces are popular choices. They also pair well with a refreshing drink.

How to Store Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure they cool completely before putting them in a freezer bag.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

  • Make sure the water is warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Knead the dough well to make it soft and airy.
  • Don’t skip the baking soda solution; it gives pretzels their unique flavor and color.
  • You can experiment with different toppings like sesame seeds or garlic powder for a twist!

Variation

For a sweeter version, add cinnamon and sugar to the dough or simply sprinkle sugar on top after air frying. You can also try stuffing the bites with cheese or chocolate before air frying!

FAQs


  1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of quick rise yeast?
    Yes, but you’ll need to activate it first by mixing it with warm water and waiting for it to foam, which may take longer than quick rise yeast.



  2. How do I know when the pretzel bites are done?
    They should be golden brown and have a nice, soft texture.



  3. Can I make these pretzel bites ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the bites ahead of time. Refrigerate them overnight and air fry when ready to serve.


Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Delicious soft and chewy pretzel bites made effortlessly in an air fryer, perfect for snacks, parties, or game nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups water (~110˚F) Warm but not too hot.
  • 2 1/4 tsp quick rise yeast Can substitute with active dry yeast.
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar (or honey)

Baking Soda Solution

  • 4 cups water
  • 1/3 cup baking soda Essential for the unique flavor.

Topping Ingredients

  • 1 egg beaten For egg wash.
  • 1 tbsp water Mix with the egg for washing.
  • Pretzel salt Optional, for sprinkling.
  • 3 tbsp butter Melted, for flavor.

Instructions
 

Make the Dough

  • Combine the warm water and yeast in a bowl. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
  • Add flour, sea salt, and sugar to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Baking Soda Solution

  • In a pot, bring 4 cups of water and baking soda to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Shape the Pretzel Bites

  • Preheat air fryer to 375˚F.
  • Punch down the risen dough and divide into small pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a rope and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Carefully place pretzel bites into the simmering baking soda solution for about 30 seconds, remove, and drain.

Air Fry the Pretzel Bites

  • Brush each pretzel bite with the beaten egg mixed with water.
  • Sprinkle with pretzel salt if desired.
  • Arrange the bites in the air fryer basket so they don’t touch. Air fry for about 6-8 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Make sure they cool completely before freezing. You can experiment with toppings like sesame seeds or garlic powder for a twist.
Keyword Air Fryer Snacks, Easy Recipes, Party Food, Pretzel Bites, Snack Ideas