Air Fryer Pretzel Bites

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cup water
• 2 tbsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp coarse pretzel salt
• 2 tbsp melted butter, for brushing
• 1/2 cup cheese sauce, for serving
• 1/4 cup mustard, for serving

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine warm water (about 110°F), yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter. Mix and knead until a smooth dough forms, about 5 minutes.
3. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 30–40 minutes until doubled in size.
4. Punch down dough and divide into small 1-inch pieces, rolling each into a bite-size ball.
5. In a wide saucepan, bring 2 cups water and 2 tbsp baking soda to a gentle simmer. Dip each dough piece briefly (10–15 seconds), then place on a paper towel.
6. Arrange pretzel bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Sprinkle with coarse pretzel salt.
7. Air fry at 350°F / 177°C for 7–9 minutes until deep golden brown.
8. Brush with melted butter if desired. Serve with cheese sauce and mustard.

Chef's Notes

Chef's Notes: This uses real yeast dough, not canned biscuit dough. The brief baking soda dip gives the pretzels their signature deep brown color and alkaline flavor. Do not skip the baking soda bath — without it, they will be plain bread bites. The water should be simmering, not boiling. Contains: Milk, Wheat.

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