For the Dough:

1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast

1 tbsp granulated sugar

4 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ tsp salt

2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Baking Soda Bath:

10 cups water

⅔ cup baking soda

Topping:

1 egg yolk, whisked with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

Coarse sea salt or pretzel salt

Optional Dipping Sauces:

Mustard, cheese sauce, or your favorite dip

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Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add melted butter and the yeast mixture. Stir and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Let the Dough Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 450°F (232°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Prepare the Baking Soda Bath: Boil 10 cups of water in a large pot, then add baking soda carefully. Reduce heat to simmer.
Shape the Pretzel Bites: Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12-inch rope. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
Boil the Pretzel Bites: Drop the pretzel bites into the boiling bath for 30 seconds, then place on the prepared baking sheet.
Add the Egg Wash and Salt: Brush each pretzel bite with egg wash and sprinkle with sea salt.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Let cool for a few minutes and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Cheese Stuffed Pretzel Bites: Stuff with mozzarella before shaping.

Garlic Butter Pretzel Bites: Brush with melted garlic butter after baking.

Cinnamon Sugar Version: Toss in cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat.