Save Soft, golden pretzel bites paired with rich, umami-packed miso butter make a standout holiday snack—perfect for festive gatherings or easy entertaining.
I first made these pretzel bites for a holiday party, and they disappeared within minutes. The savory, slightly sweet miso butter adds a unique twist everyone raves about!
Ingredients
- Active dry yeast: 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet)
- Warm water (110°F/43°C): 1 1/2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 1 tbsp
- All-purpose flour: 4 cups
- Fine sea salt: 1 tsp
- Unsalted butter, melted: 2 tbsp
- Vegetable oil: for greasing
- Baking soda: 2/3 cup
- Water (for boiling): 10 cups
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- White miso paste: 2 tbsp
- Honey: 1 tsp
- Lemon juice: 1/2 tsp
- Egg yolk: 1
- Water: 1 tbsp
- Coarse sea salt or flaky salt: for topping
Instructions
- Make Pretzel Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add and Knead:
- Add melted butter and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly oil them.
- Prep Pretzel Bites:
- Punch down dough and divide into 4 equal pieces. Roll each into a 12-inch rope and cut into 1-inch bites.
- Boil Pretzel Bites:
- In a large pot, bring 10 cups water and baking soda to a boil. Working in batches, boil pretzel bites for 30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and arrange on baking sheets.
- Bake:
- Whisk egg yolk with 1 tbsp water. Brush bites with egg wash and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until deep golden brown. Cool slightly before serving.
- Make Miso Butter:
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, miso paste, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve warm pretzel bites with miso butter for dipping or spreading.
Save Every December, my family requests these buttery pretzel bites for our movie night. Dunking them in miso butter has become our new holiday tradition!
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, large pot, slotted spoon, baking sheets, parchment paper, pastry brush, small mixing bowl. A stand mixer is optional for kneading.
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, dairy, soy (from miso paste). Check miso and butter labels for additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 195 calories, 7 g total fat, 29 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein.
Save Serve these pretzel bites warm and watch them vanish fast. The miso butter adds an unforgettable umami richness to this festive treat.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make the pretzel bites ahead of time?
Absolutely; you can prepare the pretzel dough in advance or bake the bites earlier. Reheat before serving for freshness.
- → Is there a vegan option for the butter and egg wash?
Plant-based butter and flax egg wash work well for a vegan-friendly snack. The flavor remains rich and savory.
- → How do I serve the miso butter?
Serve it on the side for dipping, or spread directly onto the warm pretzel bites. It adds extra umami to each bite.
- → What makes these bites festive?
The shareable size and indulgent miso butter lend sophistication and fun to holiday parties or casual gatherings.
- → Can I add spices to the miso butter?
Yes! A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika adds heat and layers of flavor to your butter. Adjust to your taste.
- → Are there any common allergens?
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, dairy, and soy. Always check product labels for possible additional allergens.