Hello World KitchenBeta

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Pretzel Bites

Soft and chewy homemade pretzel bites cooked perfectly in the air fryer, then immediately tossed in a rich coating of melted butter, fresh minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.

Prep 20 min Cook 15 min Total 95 min Level Intermediate

Serves 8

Ingredients

Pretzel Dough

1 cup Warm water — 110°F to 115°F
2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast — 1 standard packet
1 tablespoon Brown sugar — Packed
2 tablespoons Unsalted butter — Melted and slightly cooled
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
2.75 cups All-purpose flour — Plus more for dusting

Baking Soda Bath

4 cups Water
0.25 cup Baking soda

Garlic Parmesan Coating

4 tablespoons Unsalted butter — Melted
3 cloves Garlic cloves — Finely minced
0.33 cup Parmesan cheese — Freshly grated
1 tablespoon Fresh parsley (optional) — Finely chopped
0.5 teaspoon Flaky sea salt (optional) — To taste

Instructions

In a stand mixer bowl or large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and brown sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
~5 min
If the yeast doesn't foam, it may be dead. Start over with fresh yeast and ensure the water isn't too hot.
Add the melted butter and kosher salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing with a dough hook or wooden spoon until a dough forms.
~3 min
Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
~60 min
If the dough is too sticky, add an additional tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading.
Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal sections. Roll each section into a long rope, about 1-inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
~10 min
In a medium saucepan, bring the 4 cups of water to a gentle boil. Slowly add the baking soda (it will foam up). Drop the pretzel bites into the boiling water in small batches for 20-30 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
~10 min
The baking soda bath is crucial for giving the pretzels their signature chew and golden color.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray.
~3 min
Place the boiled pretzel bites into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. You will need to do this in batches.
~15 min
Keep an eye on the first batch, as air fryer temperatures can vary.
While the pretzels are cooking, whisk together the melted butter and minced garlic in a large mixing bowl.
~2 min
As soon as the pretzel bites come out of the air fryer, transfer them immediately to the garlic butter bowl and toss to coat. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, parsley, and flaky salt, then toss again.
~2 min
Tossing them while hot ensures the cheese melts slightly and sticks to the bites.

Nutrition

240

Calories

Protein (g)

Carbs (g)

Fat (g)

Sat. Fat (g)

Fiber (g)

Sugar (g)

450

Sodium (mg)

Cholesterol (mg)

Equipment

Air Fryer
Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
Medium saucepan
Slotted spoon
Large mixing bowl (for tossing)

Tips & Storage

Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, or the bites will steam instead of getting a crisp crust.
For extra garlic flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to the melted butter mixture.
Storage: Store leftover pretzel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.