Zapisz Soft, savory pretzel bites made with hearty rye flour and fragrant caraway seeds. These bites are perfect as a snack or party appetizer and exemplify the comforting flavors of German-American baking.
I first made these caraway rye pretzel bites for a small gathering, and they quickly disappeared from the platter. The rye flour and caraway seeds make them irresistible to anyone who enjoys hearty flavors.
Ingredients
- Rye flour: 1 cup (120 g) for robust flavor
- Bread flour: 2 cups (250 g) for structure
- Caraway seeds: 1 tablespoon in dough, 1 tablespoon topping
- Granulated sugar: 1 tablespoon for subtle sweetness
- Instant dry yeast: 2 teaspoons for rise
- Fine sea salt: 1¼ teaspoons in dough, 1 tablespoon coarse salt for topping
- Warm water (about 110°F/43°C): 1¼ cups (300 ml) to activate yeast
- Unsalted butter, melted: 2 tablespoons for richness
- Water for pretzel bath: 6 cups (1.5 L)
- Baking soda: ⅓ cup (80 g) for classic pretzel crust
Instructions
- Make the dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together rye flour, bread flour, caraway seeds, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Mix and knead:
- Add warm water and melted butter. Stir until a rough dough forms, then knead by hand (8–10 minutes) or with a mixer (5–7 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
- First rise:
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the bites:
- Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 4 pieces. Roll each into a 16 inch (40 cm) rope and cut into 1 inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
- Prepare and heat oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Pretzel bath:
- Bring 6 cups water to a boil. Carefully add baking soda. Working in batches, drop pretzel bites in for 30 seconds, remove with slotted spoon, and place on baking sheets.
- Add toppings:
- Sprinkle each bite with extra caraway seeds and coarse salt right after the bath.
- Bake:
- Bake for 14–18 minutes, or until deep golden brown.
- Serve:
- Cool briefly and serve warm.
Zapisz These pretzel bites have become a staple at our family game nights. Everyone loves to pick them up, dip them in spicy mustard, and savor the unique rye flavor.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, dough hook or hands for kneading, large pot, slotted spoon, baking sheets, parchment paper, sharp knife or bench scraper are needed to make this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) and dairy (butter). Always check ingredients for possible cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of about five bites contains approximately 180 calories, 3 g total fat, 34 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein.
Zapisz Enjoy these pretzel bites fresh from the oven. They are perfect for sharing and make every gathering feel extra special.
Najczęściej zadawane pytania dotyczące przepisów
- → Can whole wheat flour replace rye flour?
Whole wheat flour provides a different flavor and texture than rye flour but can be substituted in a pinch for a heartier bite.
- → Why use baking soda in the boiling bath?
Baking soda ensures the bites develop a deep brown crust and authentic pretzel flavor during baking.
- → How should pretzel bites be served?
Serve warm, paired with spicy mustard or cheese dip, to highlight their savory profile and complement party spreads.
- → Can these pretzel bites be made vegan?
Absolutely—use plant-based butter in the dough for a flavorful vegan alternative with a similar texture.
- → Are caraway seeds necessary?
While caraway seeds add distinct aroma and flavor, you may omit or substitute with other seeds for a different taste.
- → What tools are essential for preparation?
You'll need mixing bowls, a dough hook or hands for kneading, a large pot for boiling, baking sheets, and parchment paper.