Homemade Pretzels – Auntie Anne’s Pretzel Bites Copycat

Soft, buttery, and perfectly chewy, these pretzel bites are the ultimate copycat of Auntie Anne’s famous pretzels. Great for snacking or parties!

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (or 1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath:

• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 4 cups hot water

For the Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Coarse salt for sprinkling

Optional Dips:

• Cheese sauce, honey mustard, or cinnamon sugar

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dough
   • In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
   • Stir in salt and melted butter. Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
   • Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Let It Rise
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Pretzel Bites
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 portions. Roll each portion into a rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Baking Soda Bath
   • Dissolve baking soda in 4 cups of hot water. Dip each pretzel bite into the solution for about 10 seconds and place on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake to Perfection
   • Brush each pretzel bite with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   • Brush with more melted butter if desired. Serve warm with your favorite dip.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes

Servings: ~6 servings
Calories: ~180 kcal per serving

These homemade pretzel bites bring the mall experience to your kitchen—soft, buttery, and utterly irresistible