Toaster Oven Soft Pretzel Bites
These soft pretzel bites are perfect for snacking, and they're made easily in your toaster oven. With a golden brown, chewy exterior and soft interior, they're sure to satisfy your pretzel cravings.
Why This Works in a Toaster Oven
The close heating elements of a toaster oven allow for even browning, creating that iconic pretzel crust without needing a full-size oven.
Toaster Oven Setup
- Temperature: 425°F (220°C)
- Setting: Bake
- Convection: No
- Rack Position: Middle
- Pan Size: 9 x 6 in (23 x 15 cm)
- Batch Size: 20 bites
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Rotate Pan: Yes, halfway through
- Ready When: The pretzel bites are golden brown and firm to the touch.
💡 No convection setting? You're all set — this recipe uses the regular Bake setting, so any toaster oven can make it, with or without a convection button.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 1/4 cups (150 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon (3 g) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2 g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon (4 g) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm water
Boiling Solution
- 4 cups (960 ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60 g) baking soda
Topping
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) unsalted butter, melted
- Coarse salt, for sprinkling
Equipment
- Toaster oven
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Slotted spoon
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
- Add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat toaster oven to 425°F on the Bake setting.
- In a small saucepan, bring water and baking soda to a boil.
- Divide the dough into small pieces and roll into balls.
- Using a slotted spoon, boil the dough balls in the baking soda solution for 30 seconds.
- Place boiled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt.
- Bake in the toaster oven for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly on a cooling rack before serving.
- Enjoy these warm, chewy pretzel bites right out of your toaster oven!
How to Know It's Ready
The pretzel bites are golden brown and firm to the touch.
Troubleshooting
- If the pretzels are too pale, increase the bake time by 2 minutes.
- If the bottoms burn, move the rack higher or reduce the temperature to 400°F.
- If the pretzels are too dense, ensure the dough is kneaded well.
- For uneven browning, make sure to rotate the pan halfway through baking.
Storage and Reheating
Store pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the toaster oven at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to refresh.
Variations
- Add shredded cheese to the dough for cheesy pretzel bites.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after baking for a sweet version.
- Brush with garlic butter for a savory twist.
- Top with everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.
- Serve with mustard or cheese dip for dipping.
FAQ
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, but you'll need to activate it in warm water first before mixing with the dry ingredients.
How do I prevent the pretzel bites from sticking to the parchment?
Ensure the parchment is well-greased or use a silicone baking mat.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, shape the dough into balls and freeze on a tray before boiling. Thaw and boil when ready to bake.
Why is boiling in baking soda necessary?
The baking soda bath gives the pretzels their characteristic chewy crust and deep brown color.