Air Fryer Pretzel Bites+ Recipe [Best Ways to Make]

Name: Air Fryer Pretzel Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 21 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup water (110 degrees F); 1/4 quick rise yeast; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 sugar (or honey); pretzel salt

By Amy NicholsonPublished On: February 21st, 2024Categories: Air Fryer Recipes

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Have you ever tried the Air Fryer Pretzel Bites Recipe? If not then what are you waiting for, let’s get started without wasting any further seconds.

What are Pretzel Bites

Pretzel bites are delightful morsels, miniature versions of the beloved pretzel. Crafted from the same dough as traditional pretzels, they undergo a fascinating process.

The dough is rolled and cut into bite-sized pieces, creating these charming little nuggets. What sets pretzel bites apart is their preparation: they take a warm bath in a boiling solution of water and baking soda.

This step imparts that iconic chewiness and distinctive pretzel taste while creating that golden-brown exterior.

Once out of their soda bath, these mini pretzels are baked to perfection. What emerges is a batch of irresistibly golden, slightly crispy on the outside, and delightfully soft and chewy on the inside bites.

Their compact size makes them the ideal snack for munching on the go or enjoying with friends.

How to Make Pretzel Bites in Air Fryer

Making pretzel bites in an air fryer is a convenient and quicker alternative to traditional baking methods. Here’s a simple recipe to make pretzel bites using an air fryer:

Instructions:

Activate the Yeast:

In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the activated yeast mixture with the flour. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for around 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Form Pretzel Bites:

Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a rope about 1/2 inch thick.

Cut the rope into bite-sized pieces (around 1 inch each). Place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Air Fryer Prep:

Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for a few minutes.

Boil Pretzel Bites:

In a pot, bring water to a boil and add the baking soda.

Boil the pretzel bites in batches for about 20-30 seconds, then remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess water.

Air Frying:

Brush the bites with the beaten egg and place them in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp.

Finishing Touches:

Once done, remove the pretzel bites from the air fryer and immediately brush them with melted butter.

Sprinkle coarse salt or pretzel salt over the bites while they are still warm.

Serve:

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as cheese sauce, mustard, or any other preferred dips.

Why People Love This Recipe

People are drawn to the appeal of making pretzel bites in an air fryer for several reasons:

Convenience: Using an air fryer streamlines the cooking process, offering a quicker and more efficient method compared to traditional baking. It reduces cooking time while still delivering that signature pretzel texture and flavor.

Healthier Option: Air frying requires minimal oil compared to traditional deep-frying methods, making it a healthier choice. Individuals appreciate enjoying the crispy goodness of pretzel bites with reduced oil intake.

Versatility: This recipe allows for creativity. People can customize the pretzel bites with different toppings, seasonings, or dipping sauces, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.

Texture and Flavor: Air frying achieves a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and chewy interior, replicating the classic pretzel texture people love. Adding salt or preferred seasonings provides that savory punch, enhancing the overall flavor.

Ease of Preparation: The straightforward steps involved in making pretzel bites in an air fryer appeal to those seeking a simple yet satisfying snack or appetizer option. The process, from dough preparation to air frying, is relatively uncomplicated.

Ingredients of Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the ingredients used in making pretzel bites in an air fryer:

Warm Water (1 1/2 cups): Serves as the liquid base for activating the yeast and forming the dough. The temperature should be warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.

Active Dry Yeast (1 packet or 2 1/4 teaspoons): A leavening agent that activates and causes the dough to rise, giving the pretzel bites their characteristic texture.

Granulated Sugar (1 tablespoon): Feeds the yeast, aiding in its activation and fermentation, which helps the dough rise and develop flavor.

All-Purpose Flour (4 cups): The main dry ingredient used to form the dough. All-purpose flour provides the structure and texture for the pretzel bites.

Baking Soda (1/2 cup): Used in the boiling process. When combined with water and boiled, it creates an alkaline solution that gives the pretzel bites their distinct chewy exterior and characteristic taste.

Egg (1, beaten): Used for an egg wash to brush over the pretzel bites before air frying. This helps create a golden brown crust during cooking.

Coarse Salt or Pretzel Salt: Sprinkled over the pretzel bites after air frying for seasoning. It adds that classic pretzel flavor and enhances the overall taste.

Unsalted Butter (2-3 tablespoons, melted): Brushed over the freshly cooked pretzel bites. It adds richness and flavor while also helping the salt adhere to the surface.

These ingredients come together to form the dough, are used in the boiling process, and provide flavor and texture to the finished pretzel bites.

Adjustments can be made in quantities or seasonings according to personal taste preferences.

Variations of Pretzel Bites

There are numerous variations and ways to customize pretzel bites to suit different tastes. Here are some popular variations:

Cheesy Pretzel Bites: Add shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese) into the dough or sprinkle it on top before air frying for a gooey, cheesy twist.

Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites: Brush the baked bites with melted butter infused with garlic powder and sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a savory flavor.

Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel Bites: After air frying, toss the bites in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat. Serve with cream cheese or icing for dipping.

Everything Bagel Pretzel Bites: Top the bites with an “everything bagel” seasoning mix consisting of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic flakes, onion flakes, and salt for a flavorful, savory option.

Spicy Pretzel Bites: Add chili flakes, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the dough for a kick of heat. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for extra zing.

Stuffed Pretzel Bites: Encase small pieces of cheese, ham, pepperoni, or other fillings inside the dough before shaping them into bites for a surprise center.

Herb and Sea Salt Pretzel Bites: Mix chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil into the dough and sprinkle with flaky sea salt after brushing with butter for a fragrant and savory bite.

These variations offer diverse flavor profiles, ranging from sweet to savory and spicy, allowing you to get creative and cater to different preferences.

Experimenting with seasonings, fillings, or toppings is a great way to personalize your pretzel bites and add your unique twist to this classic snack.

What to Serve With Pretzel Bites

Pretzel bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces and accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside pretzel bites:

Cheese Sauce: A classic choice! A warm, gooey cheese sauce made with cheddar, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses complements the salty pretzel bites perfectly.

Mustard: Dijon mustard, honey mustard, or spicy brown mustard provide a tangy contrast to the savory pretzel bites.

Salsa or Marinara Sauce: For a twist, serve pretzel bites with salsa for a fresh kick or marinara sauce for a tomatoey taste.

Garlic Aioli: Creamy garlic aioli adds a rich and savory element to the pretzel bites.

Sweet Dips: Indulge in sweet dips like chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or cream cheese frosting for a dessert-like treat with cinnamon sugar pretzel bites.

Beer Cheese Dip: A rich and flavorful dip made by combining beer, cheese, and spices for an elevated pairing with pretzel bites.

Hummus: A healthier option! Creamy hummus, whether classic or flavored varieties, offers a delightful dip for pretzel bites.

Guacamole or Avocado Dip: For an alternative dip, consider serving pretzel bites with guacamole or an avocado-based dip for a creamy and fresh taste.

These dipping sauces and accompaniments complement the salty, chewy texture of pretzel bites, providing a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

Mix and match to create a snack spread that suits your preferences or offers a variety of options for guests to enjoy.

FAQs

How do you cook pretzilla pretzel bites in the air fryer?

Cook for 15 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 205 degrees Celsius, then flip, place the vegan cheese, and cook for 5 more minutes.

How long to heat the pretzel in an air fryer?

cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the desired doneness is achieved.

How long to bake frozen pretzel bites?

If One-Timer Soft Pretzel Bites are frozen, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. …
Place 6 One-timers on a baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and sprinkle with Candy Corn Crunch Sugar.
If frozen, bake for 4 to 6 minutes.

How do you cook Pretzilla bites?

Melt butter in a large skillet (12-in.) over medium heat. Add bites; toast for 4-5 minutes or until heated through, stirring and turning bites to heat evenly.

How do you cook frozen soft pretzel bites?

Bake: Preheat Oven To 400F. Lightly Mist Frozen Soft Pretzel Bites With Water, Then Sprinkle With Salt Or Press Face Down In A Bed Of Salt. Place Salted Soft Pretzel In The Oven And Cook For 3-5 Minutes.

How do you heat store-bought pretzel bites?

Bake in your pre-heated 350° oven for 4-6 minutes

Final Words

Creating homemade pretzel bites in an air fryer offers a rewarding and enjoyable culinary experience. These bite-sized delights, with their crispy exterior and soft, chewy inside, are versatile snacks that cater to various tastes.

Whether enjoyed as a savory treat with cheese sauce or mustard or as a sweet indulgence with cinnamon sugar and chocolate dips, pretzel bites are a hit among snack enthusiasts.

With simple steps and customizable toppings, they’re a delightful addition to gatherings, movie nights, or as a satisfying snack any time of day.