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Soft Gluten-Free Pretzel Bites

soft gluten-free pretzel bites - featured image

These soft gluten-free pretzel bites are tender, chewy, and bursting with flavor, just like mall pretzels. They are easy to make and perfect for snacks or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum included)
  • ½ cup (60g) tapioca starch
  • 2 ¼ tsp (7g) instant yeast
  • ¾ cup + 2 tbsp (200ml) warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
  • 4 cups (960ml) water for baking soda bath
  • 3 tbsp (45g) baking soda for baking soda bath
  • 1 tsp salt for dough
  • Coarse salt for sprinkling
  • 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp xanthan gum (if gluten-free flour blend does not contain it)
  • Optional: garlic powder or cinnamon sugar for flavor variations and toppings

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, whisk together ¾ cup (180ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C), 1 tbsp sugar, and the instant yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups (180g) gluten-free flour blend, ½ cup (60g) tapioca starch, ½ tsp xanthan gum (if needed), and 1 tsp salt. Stir well.
  3. Make the dough: Pour the yeast mixture and 2 tbsp melted butter into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms. Add warm water 1 tbsp at a time if too dry.
  4. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl and place in a warm spot for 45-60 minutes until dough puffs up slightly.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare baking soda bath: In a large pot, bring 4 cups (960ml) water and 3 tbsp baking soda to a gentle boil.
  6. Shape the pretzel bites: Lightly flour work surface with gluten-free flour. Divide dough into 24 equal pieces and roll into smooth balls or slightly oval shapes.
  7. Boil the pretzel bites: Using a slotted spoon, lower 6-8 dough pieces into boiling baking soda bath. Boil for 30 seconds, flipping halfway through.
  8. Bake: Remove boiled bites and place on prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle coarse salt on top. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp.
  9. Brush with butter: Immediately brush each pretzel bite with melted butter after baking.
  10. Cool and serve: Let cool a few minutes before serving. Best enjoyed warm with mustard or favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Keep oven door closed during baking to maintain heat and avoid soggy pretzels. Do not skip the baking soda bath for authentic pretzel crust and flavor. Use water at 110°F (43°C) to activate yeast properly. Brush with butter immediately after baking to lock in moisture. Experiment with toppings like garlic powder, cinnamon sugar, or parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free, pretzel bites, soft pretzels, snack, easy recipe, baking soda bath, chewy pretzels