MasterChef: Pretzel Bites

Pretzel Bites

This is a recipe that has become a favorite over the years. The original recipe says to serve with beer cheese, but I’ve never done that and they’ve always turned out delicious! Kids love rolling the dough to create the bites!

4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 & ¼ cups warm water
5 cups flour
¼ cup white sugar, plus 1 teaspoon
¼ cups brown sugar
1 & ½ teaspoons salt
4 tablespoons butter, melted and divided
½ cup baking soda
2 egg whites
Kosher or sea salt, for topping
Cooking spray

In a measuring cup dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in warm water. Set aside for 10 minutes.

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, white and brown sugars, and salt.

Pour the water/yeast mixture and 2 teaspoons melted butter into the bowl. Knead for 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth. Add extra water if dough is too dry, until you get your desired texture.

Lightly oil a large bowl.

Shape dough into a ball.

Place the dough ball in the bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and allow to rise for one hour.

Preheat the oven to 450 F. Spray a large baking sheet with cooling spray.

In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of hot water with the baking soda.

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter.

After the dough has risen, punch down the dough and knead with hands for one minute.

Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and break off small chunks of dough, rolling them into 1 inch diameter balls.

Dip the pieces into the baking soda water and place onto the baking sheet.

Brush with the melted butter and egg white mixture.

Bake for 7-8 minutes, until lightly browned.

http://thekeenancookbook.com/appetizer/pretzel-bites-with-beer-cheese