Soft Pretzel Bites

In a measuring cup, dissolve the yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in the 1 1/4 cups warm water. Set aside (mixture should become foamy; if it doesn’t toss it out and try again).

In the bowl of a stand mixture fitted with a dough hook (or a large bowl), combine the flour, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Pour yeast mixture and 2 Tablespoons of melted butter in the bowl. Turn on mixer and knead for 6-8 minutes or until the dough is smooth (or use your hands and knead for the same amount of time).

Spray a large bowl with nonstick cooking spray. Remove dough from bowl and shape into a ball and place dough into the sprayed bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let rise until it doubles in size, or about an hour.

Towards the end of the rising period, preheat oven to 450 degrees F and prepare baking sheets by spraying with cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the 4 cups hot water and baking soda. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg whites and 2 Tablespoons of melted butter.

After the dough has risen, punch down the dough and knead with hands for about a minute. Turn out onto lightly floured surface. Pick your shape and size and form using all the dough.

Dip the pieces in the baking soda water and place on baking sheet. Brush all pretzel bites with egg whites and remaining (cooled) melted butter then sprinkle with kosher salt.

Bake for 7-8 minutes or until browned.