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Delicious Air Fryer Pretzel Bites: A Snack Worth Savouring

Pretzel bites have become a firm favourite among snack lovers everywhere, and thanks to the advent of the air fryer, making this delectable treat at home has never been easier. These golden nuggets of dough, soft on the inside and crisp on the outside, can be customised with a variety of toppings and dips, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a quick snack. In this article, we’ll explore how to whip up your very own air fryer pretzel bites, along with some creative serving suggestions.

Ingredients

To create these mouth-watering pretzel bites, you will need:

For the Dough:

• 250g strong white bread flour
• 1 sachet (about 7g) dry active yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 150ml warm water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pretzel Bath:

• 1 litre water
• 50g bicarbonate of soda

For Topping:

• Coarse sea salt (to taste)
• Melted butter (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by dissolving the sugar and yeast in the warm water. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Stir until a rough dough forms.

2. Knead: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it has doubled in size.

3. Shape the Pretzel Bites: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough into a long rope, about 1.5cm thick. Cut the rope into bite-sized pieces, around 3cm each.

4. Prepare the Pretzel Bath: In a large pot, bring the water to a boil and carefully add the bicarbonate of soda (this will froth up). Reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the pretzel bites in batches, boiling them for about 30 seconds each. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a tray lined with baking paper.

5. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Arrange the boiled pretzel bites in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

6. Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pretzel bites from the air fryer and brush them with melted butter, if desired. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt while they are still warm.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer pretzel bites are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Dipping Sauces: Pair your pretzel bites with an array of dips. Classic options include mustard or cheese sauce. For a modern twist, try serving them with a spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy ranch dressing.

• Herb Infusions: Mix dried herbs like garlic powder, rosemary, or Italian seasoning into the dough for added flavour. Alternatively, sprinkle some cheddar cheese on the pretzel bites before air frying for a cheesier snack.

• Sweet Treats: For those with a sweet tooth, consider tossing the finished pretzel bites in cinnamon sugar for a dessert-like option. Serve with a warm chocolate dip for an indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Air fryer pretzel bites are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cosy evening at home, these little bites of goodness are sure to impress. The air fryer method ensures they are cooked to perfection, leaving you with a delightful snack that is crispy on the outside and pillowy on the inside. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of this classic snack in the comfort of your own kitchen!

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