Crispy Air Fryer Pretzel Bites (Printable)

Golden crispy pretzel bites with creamy zesty cheese dip. Perfect party snack ready in 40 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pretzel Bread Bites

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→ Zesty Cheese Dip

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# How To Make It:

01 - Dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water in a large bowl. Let stand until foamy, about 5 minutes.
02 - Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon or dough hook until shaggy dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
03 - Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 hour.
04 - Preheat air fryer to 390°F.
05 - Bring 4 cups water and baking soda to a boil in a medium saucepan.
06 - Punch down dough and turn onto floured surface. Divide into 6 pieces. Roll each into ½-inch thick rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
07 - Drop pretzel bites into boiling baking soda water for 20 seconds. Remove with slotted spoon and place on parchment-lined tray.
08 - Brush pretzel bites with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt.
09 - Arrange bites in single layer in air fryer basket. Cook for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway, until deep golden brown and crisp. Repeat with remaining bites.
10 - Melt butter in small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form roux.
11 - Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
12 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, cream cheese, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne. Whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
13 - Serve pretzel bites warm with zesty cheese dip.

# Expert Tips:

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  • The air fryer delivers restaurant quality pretzel bites without deep frying mess or oil
  • The baking soda bath creates that signature deep golden crust and distinctive pretzel flavor
  • This dough comes together faster than you would expect and bakes up incredibly light and airy inside
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  • The baking soda bath is non negotiable for that authentic pretzel flavor and crust
  • Do not skip the egg wash or the salt will not stick properly
  • Work in small batches when boiling the bites so the water stays hot enough
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  • Use a kitchen thermometer to check your water temperature for proofing yeast
  • If the dough feels too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until manageable
  • Let the air fryer preheat for at least 5 minutes for the crispiest results

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